Blue Balls

— A Cause of Testicular Pain Anyone who has ever experienced “blue balls” can tell you that it is a painful and frustrating consequence of sexual arousal. Of the many causes of pain in the testicles and scrotum, blue balls are the most benign. It is not a serious medical condition, but that does not …

The Pleasure Centers On Your Body You Didn’t Even Know About

By Hannah Rice Most people have heard the expressions “getting to first base” or “scoring a home run.” These sayings turn sports metaphors into sexual allusions, hinting at a certain goal that is supposed to result from physical intimacy. And, to plenty of folks, that mentality makes sense. After all, is there a problem with …

Being more vulnerable with your partner can improve intimacy

— Here are 6 tips for letting your guard down By Rebecca Strong Being vulnerable with your partner can improve trust, communication, conflict, and your sex life. Sharing your needs, hopes, fears, and emotions can feel scary if you’ve been hurt in the past. Therapists suggest starting slow, using physical touch, and telling your partner …

How Sex Changed the Internet and the Internet Changed Sex

— An Unexpected History By Samantha Cole Samantha Cole has been a journalist for over 10 years, spending the last five reporting on tech, sexuality, gender, and the adult industry. She is a senior editor of Motherboard, the science and technology outlet for VICE. Below, Samantha shares 5 key insights from her new book, How …

A Sex Researcher Explains Why Open Relationships Might Be The Future For Our Society

By Mark Travers It’s easy to assume that open relationships don’t concern you, especially if you’re in a monogamous relationship or identify as a monogamist. But sex reseacher and NYU professor Dr. Zhana Vrangalova argues there is more to the story than meets the eye. Research by Vrangalova, conducted in collaboration with Ashley Madison, an …

Is Outercourse the Same Thing as Abstinence?

— And 5 Other Questions, Answered By Maisha Johnson What is it? Outercourse is an option for sexual activity without intercourse. When you get down to the details, that means different things to different people. For some, it’s everything except penis-in-vagina (PIV) penetration. For others, outercourse means no penetration of any kind, including fingers, sex …

Sex After 50

— Don’t Lose That Lovin’ Feeling Connection, communication and self-acceptance keep intimacy alive By Lisa B. Samalonis Although advancing age can pose some challenges to a healthy sex life, with a shift in perspective, intimacy can still be satisfying, good for your health and overall fun. Frequently discussed obstacles include: Vaginal dryness/atrophy. Erectile dysfunction. Lost …