A recent PsycheCentral article shed light on 10 trends in sexual health and wellness.
The information below is adapted from that article:
Adaptive Sex
According to Angie Rowntree, founder of the female erotica website Sssh.com, “adaptive sex” is making sex more accessible and inclusive.
The National Coalition for Sexual Health launched its Guide to Sexual Concerns and Pleasure in order to promote that people of any age, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, race or ethnicity, or physical or mental ability, can have a pleasurable sex life.
Reduction of Stigmas Around Words that Start with “M”
The stigmas surrounding menstruation, menopause and masturbation are fading away. Signs that menstruation is becoming accepted by the mainstream include:
- increased conversations about periods
- self-pleasure to relieve symptoms
- Drinks to soothe symptoms and promote period health
- menstrual art installations
- movements that distribute period products to communities in need
The stigma around menopause is lifting as well.
A 2021 report indicates the size of the global menopause market is expected to reach $22.7 billion by 2028.
Jess O’Reilly of Astroglide says she hopes to see more conversations about sex, dating and relating post-menopause. “Life — and pleasure — doesn’t stop when your uterus ceases to be an incubator for human life.”
Carol Queen at Good Vibrations says it’s important to understand the physical and mental wellness effects associated with perimenopause. She recommends “What Fresh Hell Is This? Perimenopause, Menopause, Other Indignities, & You” by Heather Corinna.
The pleasure-product industry is growing, with luxury brands like Maude and Lora DiCarlo going mainstream with endorsements from celebrities.
According to Rowntree, other self-pleasure trends include:
- audio erotica
- guided masturbation
- ethical video streaming services
Sarah Melancon at Sex Toy Collective, adds that masturbation may be an increasing trend among older adults, too. A 2022 study of four European countries found that among adults ages 60 to 75, between 41% to 65% of men and 27% to 40% of women reported masturbating during the previous month.
Sexual Health Supplements and Apps
Sexual health supplements are becoming a popular addition to wellness routines.
Marla Renee Stewart of Lovers Stores says many people are turning to erectile tissue and natural libido enhancers like Vixen Pill and Kangaroo Supplement.
Rowntree adds that these supplements may also be helpful at the onset of menopause.
Sexual wellness apps are now available for conditions including:
- sexual dysfunction
- low libido
- menopause
- depression
- infertility
Rowntree recommends choosing apps that work with licensed physicians, therapists, or sexologists or are endorsed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Before taking any supplement, talk with a healthcare professional first. They will tell you whether the supplement you are considering is safe, or if it might interact with any medications you are taking.
Wearable Sex Technology and Remote Intimacy
Natasha Marie Narkiewicz at MysteryVibe says wearable sex tech provides access to health and pleasure and mitigates factors that prevent healthy pleasure.
Examples of wearable sex tech include the OhNut, which helps with pain during penetration and the Lioness 2.0, which uses biofeedback and artificial intelligence to trace pelvic floor contractions.
The sex tech industry is also offering remote-controlled toys, allowing people to share intimacy when they’re apart.
A 2021 study by Justin Lehmiller notes that devices that promote remote intimacy may help
- contribute to the novelty aspect of sex and
- increase chances of discovering new sources of pleasure
Sex Therapy
Couples sex therapy is becoming increasingly popular among people who want help in all areas of their sex lives and sexual health.
It includes counseling for individuals and couples experiencing a wide range of sexual disorders and dysfunctions.