Then different parts of the participants' bodies were stimulated for 1.5 seconds with scientific instruments before asking the women about their feelings. They were assessed on the perineum (clitoris, labia minora, vaginal, and anal margin), breast (lateral, areola, nipple), and control body locations (neck, forearm, abdomen).

The researchers say the study is the first of its kind. It focused particularly on younger women to establish a first series of normative data for light touch, pressure, and vibration sensitivity on the perineum and breast area.

The results found that sensitivity levels varied hugely depending on the pressure being used. For light touch, the neck was most sensitive, for pressure and vibarton the clitoris and nipple were most sensitive, and for vibration the clitoris was the most sensitive part of the body.

Researchers also analysed breast volume, body mass index, hormonal contraception, menstrual cycle, and sexual orientation - and said they do not seem to influence the results. While sexual abstinence and body piercing may have some impact.

The team concluded that the area needs more research to help women with sexual problems, even though they admit the study had flaws, saying even the sound of a vibrator caused problems.