Pain and sexual pleasure — opposites or a “sweet couple”?
The connection between pain and sexual pleasure is a source of inspiration for many writers and artists. In 1954, the erotic novel “The Story of Anne Serrois” was published in France, causing a real stir both at home and abroad. His main topic was BDSM sex. Not long ago, the 50 Shades of Gray series sold millions of copies around the world.
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Despite the popularity of this topic, the process of inflicting pain for the sake of pleasure is often besieged by secrecy and all sorts of prejudices. And those who somehow manage to practice BDSM face rejection and condemnation.
What exactly happens when a person finds pleasure in pain during sexual foreplay or intercourse?
A moment of common sense
First of all, there is one important warning to be made. If a person himself is not interested in experiencing minor painful sensations during sex, no one has the right to force him. And if you experience discomfort during sexual intercourse for any reason related to your health, you should definitely consult your doctor. Vaginismus, injury or infection of the vagina, penis, or testicles are all serious reasons to visit a specialist.
Physical pain as a source of pleasure
This is at least one explanation for why pain and pleasure are so closely related. Both painful and pleasant sensations activate the same neural mechanisms in the brain. Thus, completely healthy people may strive to experience painful sensations (most often of very low intensity) in order to enhance sexual pleasure.
But how can pain be pleasant? In fact, according to evolutionary theory, for humans and other mammals it functions primarily as a warning system. Pain indicates a physical threat. For example, if a child is offended by touching a plate, then the next time he is offended, he will be afraid to approach the fire.
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Neurophysiological basis
However, paradoxically, the mechanisms of pleasure and pain in our brain are identical. This pair of sensations is associated with the interaction of the dopamine and opioid systems of the brain. These areas regulate the production of special neurotransmitters. They engage in behaviors associated with reward and motivation, such as eating, drinking, and sex.
From the point of view of brain physiology, pain and pleasure activate the neighboring nuclei and amygdala. They are directly involved in the reward system and regulate motivational behavior.
Sweet couple after Easter
Psychological side of the issue. On the role of context in the subjective perception of pain
There are also complex psychological reasons why people may seek pleasure in pain. First, whether she perceives it as a pleasant sensation depends heavily on the context. For example, if a person feels the urge to cut himself with a knife, this always causes unpleasant and painful sensations. There is no question of pleasure here.
However, if a person experiences physical pain in a positive emotional context, such as during sex with a loved one, then the sensation of pain decreases. Oddly enough, pain experienced during sex can have a positive effect on the psyche and strengthen the psycho-emotional connection between partners. In two studies conducted in 2009, people who practiced erotic BDSM play experienced an increased sense of connection and greater trust with their partners. Moreover, these traits were characteristic of both the “subordinate” (subordinate) and the “boss” (dominant).
The desire to escape from reality and the benefits of BDSM
Escapism from reality is another reason to engage in rough BDSM play. The American Journal of Sexuality Research states that “In this way, a person can temporarily forget about his onerous responsibilities and receive psychological release.”
Therefore, if you decide to move a little away from traditional “vanilla” sex and try other forms of intimacy, there is nothing unusual in this. All you have to do is take care of your own safety and that you really enjoy this type of sex.
