Do you think a lesbian knows how to sexually please a woman better than a man does? Nearly 70 percent answered "yes" in a poll on Discovery Health Online. Public opinion aside, you don't need a sex change to please a woman — just a more exciting approach to transform your lovemaking from run-of-the-mill to remarkable.

What a Girl Wants
Whatever you do, don't assume the way you like to be touched will be a turn-on for your girlfriend or wife. "Ask her what she likes," encourages renowned psychologist and sex therapist Dr. Laura Berman. "Chances are, it's different."

"Knowing the 'map' is only the first step," adds Laura. "You not only need to be aware of the range of erogenous zones on a woman's body, but you have to understand the way she likes to be touched in different areas. She may like the back of her neck gently kissed, or the inner thighs touched in a certain way. She may even have a preference for the order in which you stimulate her different erogenous zones — first her back, then her neck, then her inner thighs, for example."

And women, it's up to you to tell your guy what peaks your pleasure (while zeroing in on his favorite zones!). Otherwise, you can only blame yourself if he takes a lust-dampening detour.

Get in the Zone
The Greek god of love, Eros, lent his name to the erogenous zones — those hot spots on the body that contain nerve endings galore, and where foreplay is rightly focused. A woman usually needs foreplay to prepare her for orgasm, so save contact with her clitoris for later, and build up to the night's climax by probing these other body parts:

• Her breasts. They're a sure-fire arouser for most women. Respondents to the poll named breasts and nipples as second only to the genitals as the most important erogenous zone on a woman's body. Just be mindful that at certain times of a woman's menstrual cycle, pressure on the breasts can be painful. A soft touch is a safer way to play.

• Her buttocks. Many women like a touch or a spank behind the scenes. You'll know if she likes it; if she's too self-conscious, you might want to leave that area out of the erotic tour next time.
• The nape of her neck. Kiss it, massage it, or breathe on it — when you're necking with your honey, you can never go wrong.
• Her lips. Kisses are a key lust-heightener for many women. From quick, soft pecks to passionate tongue-twisters, try all different styles, even in a single session.
• Her ears. Licking, sucking or kissing can all be sexy — just go gently. And hear this: whispering sweet, sexy nothings can definitely help get her hot.
• Her scalp. It drives many women crazy when their scalp is caressed or their hair is brushed in bed.
• Her inner thighs. She's probably sensitive here, so fondle softly to fan the flames.
• Her palms. Seems innocent enough, but a little soft stimulation is a handy way to wow your woman.
• Behind her knees. When it comes to a big bunch of nerve endings, there's no place like the knees. But if she's ticklish, take her giggle as a cue to move on. (There's no such thing as laugh-out-loud sexy.)

Different Strokes
Just hitting your mark might earn you a B+ in bed. But to be a grade-A lover, obey these additional zoning laws:

• Indulge your mate's individual desires. Which sensitive spots get your lady love rarin' to go? Maybe she gets worked up when you blow gently on her belly button. Then add her navel to the sensual stops en route to intercourse. Pay attention — does she seem to like a slow hand, or does she find the rougher stuff more exciting?
• Please don't be predictable! If you neglect to mix it up, you risk becoming a bore in bed, warns Dr. Berman. One of the mistakes men make is they discover a good spot and then focus on it again and again. "It's important to know what she likes, but also not to be too predictable."