Sex Ed: You Do You!
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Posted on October 22, 2024
*Sex in this article refers to all kinds of intimacy, it is not just penetrative intercourse
Pleasure is good for you. And you already know that self pleasure can be just as good, if not sometimes better than partnered pleasure.
Our sexual desire is influenced and impacted by so many factors, it's impossible to list. But our cycles (menstrual), stress levels and environment can influence our ability to dedicate time to our pleasure. But, we’re going to make a very good case why you should add your self to your to-do list.
While sex and pleasure is linked to an increase in hormones like dopamine, serotonin and endorphins, we want to shout out our favourite Oxytocin. The love hormone. Not only does it increase a feeling of bonding, it is strongly linked to a reduction in anxiety, depression, repetitive behaviour issues and improves the desire for social interactions. Furthermore, oxytocin is a highly antioxidant hormone that is linked to the anti-aging process. So, yes there are skincare benefits of this wonder hormone. Oxytocin can be produced by interaction, skin to skin contact or a stimulating conversation (you pick the topic). And we’d just like to add that Oxytocin is a hormone felt by all people; it is not exclusive to one gender. Pleasure is for everybody!
As women enter perimenopause (the lead up to the cessation of menstruation or “menopause”) we may see a decline in libido and an increase in personal distress caused by this. Changes to hormones can cause vaginal dryness, painful intercourse and a struggle to achieve orgasm. But this doesn’t take you out of the running for having a very fulfilling sex life. Personal lubricants provide support for vaginal dryness, and some have been formulated to increase blood flow and cause a gentle, yet very very effective, warming sensation.
Lubricants are not exclusive for vaginal use only. Unlike the vagina, the anus does not naturally lubricate upon arousal.
Did you know that self pleasure when you have your period can actually help to relieve cramping. Orgasm relaxes the muscles of the pelvic floor that might otherwise be tense. In fact many women report an increase in arousal during their period. This can be linked to an slight increase in testosterone, increased lubrication in the vagina and and increase in blood flow making the clitoras more sensitive. Who cares why really? A natural remedy for period pain, yes please.
So, how do you set the mood right just for you?
Romance yourself! Run a bath or luxuriate in a long shower. Become aware of your senses, touch, smell and texture. Yes, light a candle, dim the lights and apply your favourite body oils. Remember pleasure isn’t just about the end goal. Create an environment that feels beautiful, safe and can help to reduce stress that impacts your libido.
Shop our favourite self pleasure products and products to set the mood.
References
Porro, C., Benameur, T., & Panaro, M. (2021). The antiaging role of oxytocin. Neural Regeneration Research, 16(12), 2413. https://doi.org/10.4103/1673-5374.313030
Menopause ruining your sex life? (n.d.). Jean Hailes. https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/news/menopause-ruining-your-sex-life-libido
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