Not even Britney can give you more

How normal is your orgasm?

Sure, they're always good, but just how long, how often, or how intense is average anyway?

Eight "weird" things that are very, very normal

1. Having more orgasms after marriage. A married woman is 13 percent more likely to climax than when she was single.

2. Faking. Over 50 percent of women say they do.

3. Going through dry spells. 24 percent of women aged 25 to 29 reported problems climaxing in the past year. "It can be due to stress, medication or a new partner," says gynaecologist Dr Hilda Hutcherson.

4. Not enough foreplay. The average is 11 minutes but women prefer closer to 20.

5. Believing in multiples. 43 percent of women aged 20 to 39 say they can have them, but experts say multiple orgasms rarely happen every time.

6. Needing to be on top. Most women say it's the easiest position for reaching orgasm.

7. Having better ones at different times of the month. The strength of a woman's orgasm can change with her hormone levels.

8. Ejaculating. "Some doctors don't believe it," says Dr Hutcherson, "but many patients experience it."

Normal by numbers

2 = number of drinks it takes before your ability to climax decreases

42 = percentage of women who say it's easy to have an orgasm

48 = percentage of women who need more than intercourse to climax

29 = percentage of women who say they always orgasm during sex

12 = percentage of women who say it's tough or impossible to orgasm

18 = percentage who say oral sex is their best way to climax

20 = average number of seconds a woman's orgasm lasts

Go gadget shopping

Michael Brauer, co-owner of the online Passionfruit Sex Shop, emphasises that sex toys can be used to explore your body's pleasure zones, and has tips for first-timers.

DO choose smaller toys. Go for sweeter, more playful options as a beginner.

DON'T have high expectations. Forget about the results and enjoy experimenting.

DO clean your toy with soap and water.

DON'T be afraid to use your toy regularly. If you've got time, enjoy!

DO store gadgets in a satin drawstring bag or a soft, clean area to keep in top form.

Sex quickie: the most common place to have sex outside the bedroom? A car, followed by toilets.