Sex or sexual intercourse is a normal and healthy aspect of human sexuality. It is essential for individuals of all ages, including youth, to explore their bodies and learn about what feels good.
Sexual pleasure can involve the physical stimulation of erogenous zones, such as the genitals, breasts, or other body parts. It can also involve emotional and psychological factors such as intimacy, communication, and trust.
Helpful tips to remember.
- Sexual pleasure must always be consensual, safe, and respectful. This means that all parties involved should give enthusiastic and ongoing consent, communicate openly and honestly, and practice safe sex to prevent transmitting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies. Click here to learn all about consent.
- Sexual pleasure is a personal and private experience; no one should ever feel pressured or shamed into sexual activity.
- You can decide when, with whom, and how they want to engage in sexual activity.
- Education and communication are key factors in promoting healthy sexual pleasure among youth.
- As a young person, you should communicate openly and honestly with your partner about your needs, desires, and boundaries.
Parents, caregivers, and educators can provide accurate and comprehensive information about sex and sexuality to help youth make informed decisions about their bodies and sexual experiences.
Here are some tips for pleasure principles when engaging in sexual intercourse.
- Including love and kindness in your sexual experiences can enhance pleasure, both when alone and with partners.
- Being kind involves empathy, creativity, and self-care, and it’s not just about pleasing others.
- To promote sexual pleasure, you need courage, creativity, and a willingness to value all sexual experiences while respecting boundaries.
- Knowing your boundaries is crucial before discussing sex and pleasure with others, and self-reflection can help you identify what you are comfortable sharing and where you draw the line. Writing down your pleasure wishes and desires can help you set pleasure goals and discover what’s most important to you.
- In sexual relationships, kindness means recognising that sexual joy comes from giving and receiving pleasure. Understanding what both partners want and asking for enthusiastic consent while being ready to accept a “no” graciously is essential. You also need to consider and respect each other’s needs and emotions.
- Self-pleasure and self-care are powerful tools in the fight for sexual, racial, and social justice. You can advocate against harmful social norms and stigma by prioritising your wellbeing. While doing these, simple acts like sitting quietly and breathing slowly can help you avoid burnout.
- Many people carry shame or trauma around their sexual experiences, but forgiveness can be a way to move forward. Accepting what happened and giving it a place in your life can help you reclaim pleasure and love for yourself.
In summary, sexual pleasure is a normal and healthy aspect of human sexuality for youth and individuals of all ages. It should always be consensual, safe, and respectful, and youth should have access to accurate information and education to help them make informed decisions about their bodies and sexual experiences.
Written and reviewed by
Dr MaryJane Nweje (MBBS, MSc)
Sources:
- The Pleasure Project – Love Yourself Available https://thepleasureproject.org/the-pleasure-principles/love-yourself Accessed March 2023
- World Association for Sexual Health – Declaration on Sexual Pleasure
https://worldsexualhealth.net/resources/declaration-on-sexual-pleasure/
