Foreplay

Foreplay is a term that is generally used to describe any sexual activity that occurs prior to sexual intercourse.¹ However, foreplay does not always have to lead to sex. Unfortunately, foreplay is something that many either rush through or ignore altogether. In doing so, many individuals are missing out on the opportunity to develop a…

Aging and the Sexual Response Cycle

Many individuals wonder what will happen to their sex lives as they get older. Will they still be interested in having sex? Will sex continue to be as pleasurable as it was when they were younger?  How does the body change with regards to sexual function, as it gets older? While there are some changes…

Sex and Antidepressants

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), commonly referred to as Depression, is a common psychiatric diagnosis that involves persistent and intolerable negative affect. While the exact cause is unknown, some prominent theories suggest an imbalance of chemicals in the brain, a genetic predisposition, and environmental factors may increase one’s likelihood of a diagnosis. Symptoms of depression can…

Female Masturbation

Masturbation is the self-stimulation of the genitals with a hand, sex toy, vibrator, or other object for sexual pleasure. Masturbation can be done alone (solo masturbation) or at the same time as a partner (mutual masturbation). There are many methods of masturbating, as well as methods of arousal while masturbating. Some individuals enjoy fantasizing while…

The Sexual Response Cycle

The sexual response cycle refers to a series of physical and emotional phases that occur when an individual becomes aroused or engages in sexually stimulating activities. Sexual stimulation during such activities is not limited to penile-vaginal intercourse. The full sexual response cycle can be experienced during masturbation, manual stimulation by one’s partner, oral sex, or fantasy.  A comprehensive knowledge and understanding…

Insufficient Lubrication

When a female is sexually aroused, the vagina undergoes several physical changes to prepare the female’s body for sexual intercourse. One of the most noticeable changes is an increase in vaginal secretions. The purpose of these secretions is to lubricate the vaginal canal and vaginal opening which makes penetration easier by decreasing friction and thereby…