Basics of Pleasure

We all deserve pleasure and it can come in many forms! We’ll focus here on the pleasure that can come from sex and intimacy. Here are a few guiding principles to help you focus on pleasure:

Communication
‍Your partner may not always know what gives you pleasure. It can be helpful to explain your preferences or show them what you like so they know what to do next time.

Masturbation
‍If you feel like you’re still figuring out what gives you pleasure, a little solo time might do the trick! When you’re alone and relaxed, you can explore your own body and see what feels good as you touch yourself. The more you know about yourself, the better you can guide your partner to give you pleasure!

Toys
‍There are lots of different sex toys that help increase pleasure for you and your partner. You can use them during sex or masturbation. Some examples are vibrators, dildos, and anal beads or plugs. There are toys for people with penises and for people with vaginas (make sure to clean toys between uses!)

Lubrication
‍Lube can also make sex more pleasureable, especially if you or your partner experience vaginal dryness or discomfort during sex. Pro tip: Water-based lube is your safest bet, oil-based lubricants can damage latex condoms and make them less effective.

Be Creative
‍Finding what gives you pleasure may take some time, so try to be patient with yourself! Our top suggestions are to try different positions with your partner, try different rhythms, increase time for foreplay, and keep communicating about what you do and do not like.  

Remember: Pleasure can mean different things for everyone - cuddling, sex, orgasming, or other forms of intimacy. No need to compare yourself to anyone else, just focus on what you enjoy and continue to explore!

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