March is Sexual Pleasure Month
Celebrate it with Us!

A happy couple is in bed with a wheelchair nearby celebrating Sexual Pleasure Month

Sex is good for you! Our bodies thrive on the chemicals released during orgasm, so a healthy sex life is part of a healthy body. We need to think of sexual health beyond the mere absence of disease: sexual pleasure and satisfaction are essential to our wellbeing.

Go solo because YOLO!

There are many ways to experience sexual pleasure, and you don’t even need a partner. Masturbation is normal, healthy, and fun! It reduces stress, is associated with better sleep, can ease discomfort during periods, and is a great way to explore what feels good to you. Just enjoy.

Embracing Pleasure and Healthy Relationships

We’ve all found it awkward when the topic of “down there” comes up. That’s no surprise, since society puts so much shame, stigma, and pressure on, well, you know… s-e-x. We don’t have to whisper about sex and pleasure, we just need to savor it!

With partners, communication is key. The way we each experience pleasure is different, and the same goes for our comfort levels and boundaries. Consent – given freely, enthusiastically, and continuously – is a must. Learn more about starting the conversation with a partner because there is much to talk about. It’s all there for you to explore: fantasies, desires, what feels good and what doesn’t.

Something else to discuss is contraception and safer sex. There are many options to prevent unwanted pregnancies, but condoms are the only one that, when used correctly and consistently, protect against pregnancy and STIs.

It’s all about finding the condom that’s the best fit. Some are snug, some fit more loosely, others have ribs and dots to enhance a partner’s pleasure. (Hmm, is there any chance caring about a partner’s pleasure might lead to more frequent and better sex? Imagine that.) Sex with condoms is fantastic and fulfilling. Don’t take our word for it: a study with men and women found that sex is pleasurable and satisfying whether condoms are used or not.

Whether sex is solo, with a partner, or both, ASHA has collected resources designed to enhance pleasure and maximize the mental and physical benefits. You (and any partners) deserve no less.

Talking Pleasure on the Podcast

  • Sexual Pleasure Beyond the Big “O”
  • Breathing New Life into Your Sexual Relationship
  • My Sexual Awakening at 70

More to Explore

Are you ready for sex—A couple flirting at a nightclub

Am I Ready for Sex?

Am I ready for sex? This is a very common question. Your question may be “How do I know if I’m ready to have sex for the first time?” or “How do I know if I’m ready to have sex with a new person?” or even “How do I know if I’m ready to have sex with my ex again?” Whatever your question is, we’re sorry to say we can’t give you a definitive answer.
What is sex

What is sex?

The word sex has more than one meaning. On this page we explain some of the common sexual behaviors because we think being specific is always better.
A couple sits with their foreheads together

Sex and Relationships

Many people confuse love, commitment, and sex, or assume the three always go hand-in-hand. There are many ways to express love, and you don’t need to have sex with someone to show them you love them.
A couple with their heads together talking about sex

Talking about Sex

Communication is necessary throughout a relationship, from the very beginning to the very end. Talking about sex openly makes for relationships that are more fun and satisfying.
Three butt plugs used for anal play or anal sex

Anal Sex and STIs

Anal sex may have once been thought of more taboo than other sexual behaviors, but today we know it’s a perfectly normal way to find sexual pleasure.
June calendar

Celebrate the Start of #safesexysummer in June

It's time to celebrate the start of summer! June is filled with national observances to help you start the summer off right. We're here to help make June the start of a #safesexysummer.