Throughout human history, countless discussions about sexual expression have occurred but they’re mostly centered around health and risks associated with one’s sexuality. For many individuals, these conversations feel pointless as they focus too much on power dynamics and social control. As a result, certain individuals or groups may feel excluded, further hindering them from expressing their true selves.
Exploring Sexual Expression
Over the decades, there have been advancements in sexual expression and overall health such as STI treatment, contraception, and sex education. Yet, people would rather talk about the problems associated with sexuality than its possibilities. For example, sexual expression in normal pregnancies is often overlooked and even restricted in severe cases. Although prevention of unintended pregnancies, sexual violence, and STIs is crucial, conversations on this subject risk becoming limited and redundant.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), sexual health emphasizes a respectful and positive approach to one’s sexual expression. Within relationships, people’s experiences with sex should always be safe and pleasurable by avoiding discrimination, coercion, and violence. That’s why redefining these conversations is important as it allows risk prevention and freedom to explore one’s sexuality.
Expanding Conversations About Sexuality
How discussions around sexual expression are approached, in general, needs to change. These conversations are limited due to misunderstandings or ignorance. To have deeper conversations about sexual health, the traditional views on sex, such as pentile-anal or pentile-vaginal intercourse, should be expanded upon.
Fear-mongering about sexual health risks and cultural assumptions on preferences of sexual activities are hindering these conversations. Additionally, overlooking or disrespecting diverse sexual expressions or experiences outside of what’s considered normal doesn’t help either. What’s more? Most researchers neglect the diversity of solo, partnered, or group activities, such as stroking, cuddling, orgasms, and arousal, within their work.
Although existing research has provided a great foundation, discussions today should focus on diversity and representation within these conversations to be more inclusive. Not only that but they must avoid assumptions and recognize various sexual expressions. Lastly, they shouldn’t bi-directionally link an individual’s sexual expression or experiences with their health.
Pros and Cons
Ultimately, sexual expression facilitates bonding, pleasure, and communication in romantic or sexual relationships. Biological anthropologist, Dr. Helen Fisher, suggests feelings of attachment, overall well-being, and even love can create and empower one’s sexual expression. Additionally, research published in the Journal of Sex Research strengthened the theory’s credibility when it revealed that sexual and relationship satisfaction are intertwined. This proves that nurturing one’s sexual expression increases their chances of creating long-lasting and fulfilling relationships.
Despite these benefits, however, sexual expression may cause problems within various relationships. These obstacles include past trauma, medical conditions impairing sexual ability, or body image concerns. If struggling to resolve together, a professional sex therapist may offer valuable support by helping partners communicate their problems, develop coping methods, and strengthening their love or sexual connection.
Complex Relationship
One big reason sexual expression is needed is because of its health benefits. Although violence or harm may steer one away from sexual activities, sex itself can be a natural pain reliever. Indeed, it’s found that doing these sexual activities produces organisms that can decrease the risk of migraine headaches for men and women. However, researchers have yet to determine what causes this effect happens.
Women
Women, in particular, have specific pathways in their bodies that alleviate pain. During orgasms, pressure stimulates the anterior wall of the vagina, while clitoral stimulation offers analgesic effects. Interestingly, engaging in sexual activity produces oxytocin and endorphins that increase women’s pain thresholds giving them a higher tolerance.
Women are also more likely to get depression as their prevalence rates are higher than men by 50-100%. Surprisingly, even countries that offer more equality and inclusion for women are impacted. However, researchers may have found a reason for this disparity within women’s testosterone levels as they can act as natural mood enhancers.
For both men and women, sexual activity increases their testosterone levels, which may alleviate depressive symptoms. Primarily, women who don’t use hormonal contraception can boost their testosterone levels simply by thinking about their sexuality. Likewise, women who masturbate frequently are likely to have higher self-esteem and reduced sexual anxiety.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, people show sexual expression in various ways privately and publicly. Individually, sexuality is reflected in one’s personal style, spirituality, and consumer choices. In contrast, public sexual expression emerges within interpersonal or intimate relationships as couples love and support each other. Whether hanging out with friends or enjoying music at home, people have numerous opportunities to express their sexuality without fear of judgment.
Disclaimer: This article is intended simply to provide information. It does not replace the medical advice of a physician or other medical professional. Please speak with your doctor or therapist if you have any questions or concerns.
