On this December 21, 2022, World Orgasm Day, it seems appropriate to discuss the link between contraception and orgasm. You may be wondering what it is. Let’s take a look together.
First of all, what is an orgasm?
As with any experience, the experience of orgasm is highly subjective, so its definition can vary from person to person. The theoretical definition of orgasm holds that it is a sensation of great release following the attainment of a climax of pleasure and excitement. Some women report having difficulty reaching orgasm or don’t know if they’ve ever experienced one.
What about the enjoyment gap?
First, a brief overview of the knowledge surrounding the jouissance gap is in order. A study published in 2017 in the Archives of Sexual Behavior revealed that 95% of men would have an orgasm during heterosexual intercourse, while for women, this is the case for only 65% (Frédérick et al., 2017).
This statistic can be explained by a multitude of factors, such as the negative sex education received, sexual relations centered on penetration, the prioritization of male pleasure, the taboo of female masturbation, and so on. In a heterosexual relationship, it’s easily considered normal to end a sexual encounter after the man has had an orgasm, whereas the opposite is less common and socially conceivable (Séguin et al., 2018).
The impact of contraception on sexual satisfaction
When it comes to contraception, you’re likely to hear many different stories and experiences. It’s normal, everyone’s different. Some experiences are positive, others a little less so. One of the things you hear about hormonal contraception is that it reduces sexual desire. In fact, some hormonal contraceptive methods can affect the level of sexual desire. A person may need to try different methods before finding the one that suits them best. Especially as the level of sexual desire is influenced by many other factors, which may be relevant to investigate before thinking about changing contraception. That said, sexual desire can also be affected by marital satisfaction, lack of communication, difficult life events and so on.
Fear of an unplanned pregnancy, a brake on sexual indulgence
The risk of an unplanned pregnancy can be a major source of stress for some people. With this fear in mind during sexual activity, it can be difficult to let go and give yourself the right to experience pleasure.
Having unprotected sex may not be stressful for some, but for others it can be very. That’s why it’s a good idea to talk about contraception before you start having sex. On the one hand, you’ll be sure not to forget to bring it up, and on the other, you’ll be sure to keep your mind free of this source of stress.
A person who does not wish to become pregnant, and who has a sexual relationship at risk of pregnancy, may tend to experience stress and be more in his or her head during sexual activity. To be in a favorable context for experiencing sexual pleasure, it’s generally recommended to be connected to your body and live in the present moment.
When someone finds the right formula for them to avoid unplanned pregnancies, whether it’s a condom, hormonal contraception or a natural method, it reduces worries and allows for more fulfilling sexual relationships. It can then be easier to concentrate on bodily sensations, with less anticipation of risks.
For more information on contraceptive methods, click here!
When we think of contraception, we often think of women. Indeed, most of the burden of contraception falls on women. As much as using a contraceptive method can be helpful in living one’s sexuality more freely, it can also be a major burden and thus another source of stress. The weight of the contraceptive load can be a factor impacting on the ability to let go during sexual activity, and therefore, on orgasm.
Other solutions for a satisfying sexuality
Obviously, this article is about heterosexual, penetration-centred sex, considering the topic of contraception. However, there are many other ways to experience sexuality without necessarily risking pregnancy. Caressing non-genital erogenous zones, oral sex, masturbation and the like can be equally if not more satisfying for some people.
The clitoris is the only organ in the human body 100% dedicated to pleasure, and the only one responsible for orgasmic pleasure in women. Have you ever heard the widespread myth that some people are vaginal and others clitoral? In fact, it’s the clitoris that’s responsible for orgasm through external and internal stimulation. It’s worth taking a closer look!
Finally, regardless of the contraception method used, everyone should be able to live their sexuality to the full, without fear of unexpected pregnancy. But since no contraceptive method is 100% effective, it’s essential to discuss contraception before engaging in sexual activity, if you don’t want to become pregnant.
Sources:
Frederick, D., St John, H. K., Garcia, J. R., & Lloyd, E. A. (2017). Differences in orgasm frequency between gay, lesbian, bisexual, and heterosexual men and women in a US national sample.
Séguin, L. J., Rodrigue, C., & Lavigne, J. (2018). Consuming ecstasy: Representations of male and female orgasm in mainstream pornography. The Journal of Sex Research, 55(3), 348-356.