Talking about intimacy may still be difficult for many women, despite growing conversations around sexual wellness. A new survey has found that one in ten women does not feel comfortable discussing their sexual desires with their partner, while many admit they find greater satisfaction through solo pleasure than in partnered intimacy.
According to a report by Mirror, a survey of 1,000 women found that one in ten do not feel comfortable talking openly with their partner about their own sexual wants and needs. The findings also revealed that nearly a quarter of respondents have fantasies or sexual preferences they have never shared with their significant other.
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Many women find greater satisfaction through solo intimacy
As per the report by Mirror, the research found that 31% of women are more likely to reach climax through solo sexual activity than with a partner. At the same time, seven in ten respondents view personal sexual exploration as an important part of their overall wellness and self-care routine.
(Representational Image) Self-pleasure remains an important part of wellness for many women. AI Generated More than a quarter of women said they feel more comfortable engaging in self-pleasure, while 9% admitted they have kept ownership of a sex toy hidden from their partner.
Despite the importance many place on personal intimacy, finding time for it remains a challenge. Less than half of those surveyed said they are able to regularly make time for themselves, typically dedicating around 30 minutes a week to their own pleasure. Nearly one in five respondents said they never set aside time for it at all.
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Why do women prefer solo intimacy?
Among the most common reasons women found self-pleasure more satisfying was a better understanding of their own bodies, cited by 63% of respondents. Others said it allows them to explore personal fantasies (33%) and enjoy intimacy without feeling rushed (32%).
Additionally, 19% said they feel less restricted by insecurities or inhibitions when alone.
When it comes to getting in the mood, fantasising topped the list at 28%, followed by watching adult content (26%) and reading erotic literature (23%). Creating a comfortable environment and taking a warm bath or shower were also popular choices.
(Representational Image) Open conversations about intimacy are still a challenge for some couples. AI Generated Most women say they can talk openly about intimacy
While some women remain hesitant to discuss intimacy, the survey also found that open communication is common in many relationships. Three-quarters of respondents said they feel comfortable talking to their partner about what they do and do not enjoy in bed.
“We believe taking time for self-pleasure isn't just an intimate act, it is an act of self-care", a spokesperson for G Spot, the wellness drinks brand that commissioned the study, was quoted by Mirror as saying.
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“Pleasure is an essential part of holistic well-being – it is not a selfish pursuit, but the truest form of self-care and discovery. We want to empower women to have the confidence to find time for themselves – which we all need and deserve.”
(Representational Image) Communication, comfort and self-care shape women's intimate wellbeing. AI Generated “Every individual's body is unique, and what brings pleasure can vary greatly”, the spokesperson added.
“Women have an incredible capacity to understand their own bodies, desires, and boundaries, and it's through self-pleasure that they unlock the key to their own satisfaction.”
“Far too often, the topic of women’s sexuality is viewed as taboo, and laden with feelings of guilt. Inspiring the confidence in women to do what feels good – whether that be in relation to sexual pleasure and wellness, or simply the choices we make around food and drink – is central to our ethos.”
“Wellness is due a fresh take – one which is less intense and anxiety-inducing, and makes you feel good, without guilt or inhibition.”
