Female Sexual Wellness

That's right, we're getting intimate in this post. Here - you are going to learn everything they didn't teach you in high school sex ed.

"let's talk about sex, baby .. let's talk about .." the female orgasm!

Now, let's get one thing straight - you do NOT need a partner in order to have an orgasm ...

in fact, the majority of women that do reach climax achieves it during self pleasure!

facts:

• less than 20% of women orgasm from vaginal intercourse, without clitoris stimulation.

• 36% of women need direct clit stimulation in order to experience an orgasm.

• women reach orgasm quicker alone (about 8 mins) vs with a partner (about 14 mins).

• 75 % of lesbians achieve O's with a partner - where only 63 % of straight women do. (study )

• Only about 40% of men know where to locate the clitoris.

• The clitoris is the only organ with 'pleasure' as it's only function.

Now you are probably wondering - how the heck can we fix these statistics?!

I'm glad you asked.

First, let's learn about what an orgasm is & why you want to be having one, or two!

Orgasm: from Greek - orgasmos ("swelling", "excitement")

the sudden release of accumulated sexual excitement during the sexual response cycle, characterized by intense sexual pleasure resulting in rhythmic, involuntary muscular contractions in the pelvic region.

Of course orgasms' feel freaking fantastic, but there are a multitude of health benefits that cum 😏 with them as well; & here are my top 5!

Improve mental health -

The release of oxytocin lowers feelings of anxiety and stress, which in turn decreases cortisol ; making you happier & more relaxed. The increase of blood flow to the brain can also improve cognitive function and memory.

Better sleep -

After a climax, hormones like Prolactin, Dopamine, and endorphins are released - making you feel at ease and sleepy. An increase of these hormones have been shown to induce deeper states of sleep. So, not only will you fall asleep faster ... but you'll also experience a more restful slumber!

Pain relief -

The same hormones that make us feel relaxed are also beneficial when it comes to reducing pain! Some studies show that relief can be successful when it comes to discomfort related to migraines, joint pain, and menstrual cramps.

Strengthen Pelvic muscles -

The contractions that happen within the pelvic region during climax help to tighten and tone the muscles around the vagina, uterus, bladder, & bowels. A strong pelvic floor is important to reduce issues regarding incontinence, core stability, organ prolapse , and future pregnancy / childbirth.

This study shows that women who delivered vaginally had better post partum pelvic recovery when they incorporated orgasm therapy along side Kegel exercises, compared to the group that just did Kegal's alone.

Skin health -

During orgasm, blood circulation is increased - delivering a rush of oxygen and nutrients to the surface of the skin. The release of estrogen supports collagen levels; resulting in youthful, plump looking skin. Also, lower cortisol levels can lead to less oil production, which can mean fewer breakouts.

I know, I know - if orgasms' are so great, then why aren't more women having them??

WELL, there are actually a ton of reasons for why someone isn't able to achieve orgasm .. men included. The range is pretty vast - it could be physically, mentally, or emotionally caused.

Although there are countless reasons, I'm going to list the most common ones here-

• Physical - medication side effects, medical disabilities, age / hormone changes, poor health.

• Mental - anxiety / depression, trauma, body insecurities, overtired.

• Emotional - stress, lack of connection, processing grief.

Tips for a successful orgasm (solo play):

1. Learn the proper anatomy. How are you suppose to achieve clitoral orgasm if you don't even known where the clit is?!

2. Get comfortable with your body. Don't be scared, go on and touch yourself! If this is a new practice for you, start up top. Gently run your fingers up and down your arms, across your chest, and around your stomach. Explore!

3. Try to relax. Don't make the orgasm priority, doing this just adds stress to the session. Lay back and just enjoy all of the sensations.

4. Experiment to see what you like. Some women enjoy internal pentation, while others prefer external play. There is no wrong way to masturbate, as long as it feels good to you!

5. Use toys and tools. There are thousands.. probably millions... of different sex toys and aids out there in the world! Once you know what sensations you respond to - you can invest in something that can help you achieve climax easier. The options are endless!

6. Enhancement creams. Used internally or externally, these types of creams (or gels) can be used to stimulate blood flow to the area, increase sensitivity by warming or cooling, and provide lubrication. All of which can help you receive pleasure and satisfaction.

7. Take care of yourself! Prioritizing health by eating nutritious foods, staying hydrated, exercising, and getting adequate sleep, will greatly affect your overall mood, libido, and body function.

For the record, sexual wellness isn't just about orgasms, there's MUCH more involved. When it comes to health, the vagina is actually a very sensitive spot. The delicate PH can easily be disrupted by soaps, sex, and other factors - which is why it's so important to be mindful around that area.

Hygiene:

• DO - clean with warm water daily ; if you use soap, make sure it's unscented.

• Don't - clean with harsh, scented washes; wipes; or douches.

Underwear:

• DO - panties that are100% cotton, loose fitting, and breathable. Change after exercising. Change if you have excessive discharge.

• Don't - nonbreathable, tight fitting panties/ pants. Wear thongs daily.

Hair:

• DO - keep hair trimmed and clean.

• Don't - remove it completely.

A lot of women prefer to shave or wax that region, but pubic hair actually plays an important role when it comes to preventing bacteria from entering the vaginal canal. So, despite personal preference, it is better to leave some hair rather than going bare!

Condoms:

• DO - prevent STD's by 95 %. Reduce BV (bacterial vaginosis) by 45%.

• Don't - use latex condoms if you have an allergy (up to 6% of women do)

Lube:

• DO - water based, silicon based, oil based.

• Don't - bay oil, petroleum jelly based.

Exams:

• DO - see a healthcare professional for a yearly exam.

• Don't - wait to see the doctor if you are having any abnormal symptoms.

What you put in your body also influences the health status of your lady bits. Are you drinking enough water? Consuming prebiotic or fermented foods? Are you on a medication? These all play a part in how your vagina functions!

• Lack of fluids can leave you feeling on the drier side.

• Yogurt contains beneficial bacteria that can prevent yeast infections or BV.

• Taking oral antibiotic medications can cause bacteria imbalances in the vagina; leading to infection.

The level of a woman's sexual wellness doesn't only affect her sex life - but her mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing as well! Stop the stigma around sexual health & take it PROUDLY into your own hands!

If you've found this article helpful and insightful, I encourage you to share it with other women in your life so that they can optimize their own health!