Looking to spice up your sex life? The team of professionals at Flo, specializing in physiology and psychology, have curated a list of tips for you and your partner to try. Whether you're looking to reignite passion or simply explore new avenues of intimacy, these suggestions can help you both connect on a deeper level.
1. Boost Your Libido Naturally
Your sex drive often peaks around ovulation, the time when you're biologically most likely to conceive. However, libido isn't solely governed by your cycle. Various factors such as stress, lifestyle, and even your environment can play a significant role.
For instance, work-related stress might diminish your sexual interest, but you may notice a resurgence during a relaxing vacation. Interestingly, studies show that single women may experience higher spikes in sexual interest around ovulation compared to those in long-term relationships.
2. Communicate Openly About Sex
Talking about sex, especially in a new relationship, can be intimidating. Many shy away from these conversations out of fear of offending their partner or invading their privacy. However, if your sexual experiences aren't fulfilling, open communication is key to improvement.
A heartfelt, non-judgmental conversation can encourage both partners to share their feelings and desires. To avoid misunderstandings, focus on expressing what you enjoy rather than criticizing your partner’s performance.
Choose a time when both of you are relaxed and not in a rush—whether over breakfast, in the bathroom, or in bed. The goal is to ensure both of you are in a positive frame of mind, making the conversation about sex and intimacy easier and more productive.
3. Incorporate Aphrodisiac Foods
Food and sex are two of life's greatest pleasures, and combining them can be a delicious way to enhance your libido. Aphrodisiac foods are believed to stimulate sexual desire and include items like chocolate, oysters, avocado, red pepper, ginseng, honey, strawberries, and nuts.
While ginseng has been scientifically proven to combat sexual issues in men, the effects of other aphrodisiacs are less clear. These foods often contain mood-enhancing substances (like the serotonin-boosting compounds in chocolate), essential vitamins, and minerals that contribute to overall well-being, indirectly supporting sexual health.
4. Strengthen with Kegel Exercises
Kegel exercises, designed to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, have been reported to enhance sexual pleasure for both men and women. Women often experience more intense orgasms, while men benefit from increased sensation due to improved muscle tone in their partners.
To get started, practice stopping your urine flow midstream by contracting your pelvic floor muscles. This is the same contraction you’ll perform during Kegel exercises. Aim for three sets of 10 reps each day. The best part? You can do them anytime—whether at work, driving, or relaxing at home.
5. Experiment with Dirty Talk
The brain, particularly the hypothalamus, is the sexiest organ, as it controls sexual desire. Engaging in "dirty talk" can stimulate arousal by activating this powerful center of desire.
Why is dirty talk so effective, especially for men? The male hypothalamus is larger, which may explain why men often have higher libido. Additionally, the amygdala, which governs fear and emotional responses, plays a role in loosening inhibitions and heightening sexual excitement.
6. Embrace Risk and Adventure
High-adrenaline activities with your partner, like watching a thriller, riding a roller coaster, or climbing, can ignite passion by triggering the release of adrenaline and dopamine, the pleasure hormone.
If you're not into extreme sports, exercising together can offer similar benefits. The shared experience of overcoming physical challenges strengthens your bond and can lead to heightened sexual arousal.
7. Engage in Pillow Talk
Post-sex conversations can be a powerful tool for deepening your relationship. Discussing fantasies, what you enjoyed, or even expressing gratitude can enhance your connection and intimacy.
Being open and honest with your partner and embracing experimentation are key to a fulfilling sex life. And if you encounter difficulties, seeking the guidance of a therapist together can be a valuable step toward finding mutual satisfaction.
These straightforward tips are designed to help you and your partner navigate the journey toward a more satisfying and exciting sex life. By communicating openly, experimenting together, and nurturing your physical and emotional connection, you can discover the path to your best sex life yet.
References
1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/sex-during-pregnancy/art-20045318
2. https://www.marchofdimes.org/find-support/topics/pregnancy/sex-during-pregnancy
3.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3080531/
4. https://www.parents.com/pregnancy/my-life/sleep/common-pregnancy-dreams-and-whats-really-behind-them/
