Journal of Psychosexual Health

The persistent disparity in orgasm frequency between cisgender men and women during heterosexual intercourse—termed the “orgasm gap”—reflects not only physiological but also deeply embedded sociocultural dynamics. Several researchers use the term orgasm gap primarily for orgasm difficulties originating from cultural issues, whereas other researchers also use this term for broader use. Reduced orgasm frequency leads to poor sexual satisfaction, decreased desire to engage in sexual relationships and several other adverse consequences for women. Sociocultural changes happening around the world, resulting in improving women’s rights, education, independence, awareness related to sexual issues, public discourse and media representation, as well as rapidly improved scientific understanding, are influencing issues related to the orgasm gap. Against this backdrop of advancing gender equity, increasing sexual literacy, and expanding scientific inquiry, the conversation around female sexual pleasure is evolving. Efforts to address the orgasm gap now encompass media representation, educational outreach like easy availability of information and resources in books and websites, and the integration of evidence-based clinical approaches. This narrative review synthesizes current scientific findings, sociocultural narratives, and technological developments, equipping clinicians with comprehensive, context as well as culturally sensitive strategies for helping females with orgasmic difficulties.

This review article delves into the multifaceted realm of threesomes, examining their impact on societal norms and providing insight into the evolving landscape of human sexuality. It investigates various aspects including prevalence, motivations, configurations, and impacts, while emphasizing the significance of cultural acceptance and implications for relational well-being. Notable gender differences in participation and fantasies are explored, with an emphasis on how diverse configurations challenge established norms. Motivations for engaging in threesomes span from curiosity to intimacy enhancement, reflecting evolving attitudes toward sexual behaviors. The potential influence of threesomes on monogamous relationships is discussed, highlighting the importance of clear communication and safe sex practices. Additionally, the role of female agency and pornography in shaping perceptions and experiences is examined. Recommendations for researchers and mental health professionals underscore the need to address societal stigmas, explore cultural contexts, promote comprehensive sex education, empower female agency, and enhance communication skills. Understanding threesomes contributes to a deeper understanding of human sexuality, fostering inclusivity toward diverse sexual experiences and relationships. Further research is advocated to bridge existing gaps and cultivate a more empathetic society, recognizing threesomes as a complex aspect of human intimacy deserving of nuanced discussions and inclusive research.

Sexuality is a central dimension of people’s lives, but it is often overlooked and neglected in relation to people with intellectual disabilities. This Systematic Literature Review investigates the perceptions, attitudes, and experiences of people with intellectual disabilities, their families and professionals about their sexual and romantic lives. Specific databases were searched (PubMed, EBSCO, SCOPUS, APA PsyArticles, Cochrane, and gray literature), and a methodological quality assessment was carried out according to the Joanna Briggs Institute, resulting in the inclusion of 21 articles, published between 2018 and 2023, which met the established criteria. The results show that sexuality is essential for people with intellectual disabilities. The studies show that these people seek intimate relationships, but are limited by social norms, lack of support and inadequate sexual education. This directly affects their emotional well-being and personal satisfaction. Health professionals and caregivers have divergent attitudes towards the sexuality of people with intellectual disabilities, facing obstacles in sexuality education. Parents face a dilemma between promoting independence and protecting themselves from risks, which influences their children’s emotional balance. This highlights the need for personalized approaches to sex education, attention to specific needs and effective communication between health professionals, caregivers and families, with the aim of strengthening self-esteem and autonomy. The results show that researchers should understand the impact of different parenting approaches on the emotional health of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Future research should include all stakeholders, enabling a wider range of perspectives and stakeholder involvement in the formulation, implementation, and evaluation of personalized educational programs.

Female genital cosmetic surgery (FGCS) has become increasingly sought after for achieving idealized genital appearances. Prototypical vulvar expectations driven by cultural norms significantly impact women’s body image and motivations for undergoing FGCS. This study explored how visual characteristics of vulvas, such as labia size and pubic hair, influence perceptions of attractiveness, sexual behavior, and personality traits based on zero-acquaintance assessments. Participants evaluated images of vulvas varying in visible anatomical features. The researchers investigated the associations between perceived genital prototypicality, personality attributes, and sexual perceptions. Prototypical vulvas, aligning with cultural aesthetics, were rated as more attractive and linked to positive personality traits. Visible anatomical variations, such as longer labia minora or untrimmed pubic hair, led to more negative perceptions and associations with increased sexual openness. The findings demonstrated how societal standards shape perceptions of female genitalia, exacerbating body image issues, and influencing decisions to undergo FGCS. The need for broader cultural acceptance of natural anatomical diversity is necessary to reduce the stigma and psychological impact associated with non-conforming genital appearances.

Gender is a psychosocial construct that reflects attitudes, feelings, and behaviors prescribed by cultural expectations for men and women. Gender discrimination has been identified as inappropriate in numerous societies. Greater attention has been paid to the discrimination in attitudes and practices that essentially disadvantage women and girls. There is limited attention and research on discrimination, whose central casualties are men and boys. It is so unrecognized that the mere mention of it may appear laughable to some. The article examines how hegemonic masculinity in India perpetuates discrimination against men by enforcing rigid gender norms, leading to emotional suppression, societal pressure, and marginalization of nonconforming masculinities. Further the study aims to challenge traditional notions of masculinity and advocate for more inclusive gender frameworks.

This exploration of Lana Del Rey’s song “A&W” through a feminist lens focuses on themes of bodily autonomy, sexual trauma, societal judgment, and emotional resilience. The song’s opening reflects a poignant loss of innocence and highlights the protagonist’s strained relationship with her mother, emphasizing the critical role of maternal bonds in identity formation as theorized in feminist psychoanalysis. Del Rey’s portrayal of complexity in feminine identity is captured in lyrics that reject reductive labels, embracing the contradictions and multitudes within a woman.

The song also critiques rape culture and victim-blaming, challenging societal narratives that invalidate survivors’ experiences based on appearance or stereotypes. By juxtaposing vulnerability with resilience, Del Rey illuminates the psychological impact of trauma and the protagonist’s journey toward self-reclamation. Furthermore, the title, an abbreviation for “American Whore,” reclaims a derogatory term, transforming it into a symbol of defiance against patriarchal norms.

Del Rey’s use of popular music as a medium bridges personal and collective struggle, demonstrating the power of art to articulate feminist resistance. Positioned within the broader context of fourth-wave feminism, “A&W” becomes a compelling feminist text, offering insights into the intersections of trauma, identity, and cultural critique.