4 Points to Consider Before Putting On a Cock Ring

We hear all kinds of information about cock rings, love rings, couples rings, vibrating rings – rings for all kinds of things – and why they’re awesome, but they can be confusing when confronting one face to face. There’s a lot to keep in mind before strapping one on and it’s not always intuitive (though it’s also not rocket science), so we thought we’d offer a quick guide to take the mystery out of the subject matter. Here are four of the most important points to consider:

Where Are You Wearing It?

Cock rings can actually be worn in one of two ways, depending on your preference: either around the penis and testicles, creating a snug fit at the base of the body; or just around the base of the penis, leaving the testicles to dangle on their own. It helps to try a variety of widths and sizes to see what feels best; some men like a tight fit around the shaft but something with more give when the testicles are involved.

Most men like cock rings because of their ability to engorge and enhance their package, which can lead to greater sensitivity, stronger orgasms and longer-lasting sex. But sometimes the best part is knowing that wearing a cock ring can make your junk look bigger. Because who doesn’t want that?

What’s it Made Of?

Rings come in many forms – some are stretchy, some are rock-hard steel, and others have straps and snaps. Each one is worn in a different way, so keep this in mind when you’re starting to shop.

Stretchy rings can be easy to put on and get off, depending on how stretchy they are. We suggest starting made of elastomer or SEBS as they stretch much more than most silicones and once you’ve gotten the hang, upgrade to something made of a more expensive material. Whatever material you choose, start out by stretching the cock ring as wide as it can go (just keep a good grip on it so you don’t snap yourself!) so you can ease your way in and adjust as necessary. BONUS: stretchy materials can be quickly and easily removed in an emergency by simply snipping them with scissors.

RingO 3-pack in clear, stretchy, body-safe SEBS

Stainless steel, stone or other rings made of materials that don’t stretch are for more advanced users because they can fit quite tight and be tremendously difficult to remove once you’re done. Once you’re engorged and rock hard, these things aren’t coming off easily, so use caution.

Leather and other cock rings that attach with snaps are popular because they are so simple to get on and off. Snap the two ends together to your preferred tightness level and then unsnap them in an instant when you’re ready. These tend to be more aesthetically pleasing than effective for sexual enhancement, however, so choose a different material if you’re looking for a tighter fit.

How’s the Hair Down There?

Cock rings, especially ones made of stretchy materials, can sometimes pull or yank on pubic hair as your put them on and off. We recommend using lubricant to keep the area smooth and slick, which lets the cock ring slide across the skin without accidentally catching on something you don’t want it to. If you’re completely new to the cock ring game, you could even try shaving the area to completely remove the risk of hair-pulling – it all depends on your comfort level.

Does Your Cock Ring Vibrate?

Many cock rings come with vibrating motors attached, often designed to provide your partner with some stimulation while you’re going at it. If your partner is a woman, chances are she might enjoy the feeling of a vibrating ring against her clitoris – it often can help her reach orgasm without having to reach down and do it herself. Just make sure the vibrating motor is positioned correctly so it can make contact with her sweet spot.

If your partner is a man, he might enjoy feeling tickling vibration against his taint. Try wearing the cock ring with the motor below your penis and/or testicles to give him (and you!) a little vibrating boost. Many cock rings also come with extra ticklers and stimulators, so if you and your partner are big fans of taint tapping and ball bumping, try a cock ring with swinging beads and dual motors. They can turn up the fun with the touch of a button.

The Screaming O Original Vibrating Ring

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4 Reasons Why Orgasms are Good for Women’s Health! 

It’s no secret that having an orgasm can have health benefits – who doesn’t feel lighter, happier and genuinely better after rubbing one out (or having someone handle it for you)? But it’s more than just an endorphin rush and fresh-faced flush that makes an orgasm a day keep the doctor away.

1. Say Bye-Bye to the BluesThe endorphin rush that follows an O-face not only gives you a boost of energy and joy, but it also helps flush out cortisol, a hormone commonly linked to stress. Cortisol can cause inflammation in the body and give you that heavy, weighed-down feeling that comes along with tension and pressure. But every orgasm you have can help keep cortisol levels down – and your spirits up!
2. Orgasms Were an Old-School Cure-allBack in the late 19^th century, doctors used to give orgasms to female patients who’d come down with an illness they called “hysteria.” Treatment included doctors using their fingers to stimulate women until they had a “release” that visibly changed their mood and demeanor. Women who entered doctors’ offices with anxiety, fits and frantic behavior ended up leaving feeling calm, relaxed and in bright spirits – so it made sense that this method was a logical and effective cure.As you can imagine, hysteria became an epidemic with women needing multiple and frequent treatments (well, duh) and soon, doctors created electric stimulators – now known as vibrators – to help them handle the influx of patients. (And to give their hands and fingers a break!)
3. Orgasms Can Kill Pain!Orgasms provide an analgesic effect similar to over-the-counter pain meds thanks to the release of oxytocin, a hormone that many associate with a blissful feeling. It’s created by the brain and released during childbirth, breast-feeding and sex (among other times, of course) and can help alleviate the pain associated with headaches, menstrual cramps, aching muscles and more. So next time you feel some pain coming on, try supplementing Advil with an orgasm or three!
4. Orgasms Get Your Blood FlowingYour heart beats faster as you get closer to orgasm, causing blood to flow faster throughout the body so it can get to the necessary areas and heighten your senses in preparation for that big O. But as your face and body flush with that telltale pink glow, some scientists believe that your body is also getting a jumpstart as blood flows extra-fast, detoxifying your system and help aid in digestion and other common bodily functions!

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It’s more a wishbone than a bean.

We’ve all heard of flicking the bean, but did you know the clitoris is actually shaped more like that forked bone we sometimes fight over on Thanksgiving? In 1998, scientists discovered that the majority of the clitoris is actually internal, hidden from sight and is MUCH larger than anything previously imagined. The little nub we sometimes call the “man in the boat” – it’s actually called the glans – is merely the apex of the clitoris with the rest of it extending deep inside the pelvic region. That wishbone shape that allows it to connect to some important interior bits and pieces responsible sexual function and response, which all work together to help make sex feel good for her!

It has no purpose other than pleasure.

The clitoris’ single and sole function is to provide its “owner” with pleasure. In fact, it’s the only human organ that exists solely for pleasure – unlike the penis, which has important reproductive functions. (And makes it possible for men to pee.)

They get erect – just like penises.

Believe it or not, the clitoris and penis are quite alike! It has a glans (the “bean”), a foreskin (the clitoral hood), and is made up of erectile tissue that engorges with blood and gets hard when aroused and during sexual stimulation – and it relaxes and chills out after orgasm.

They’re responsible for the majority of women’s orgasms.

Contrary to old-school belief, the majority of women (some say up to 75%!) need some kind of clitoral stimulation to have an orgasm – no amount of thrusting, pumping or banging with a penis will get most women over the edge. And because the clitoris’ wishbone shape extends around the vaginal canal, women who DO orgasm from intercourse alone likely had the interior parts of the clitoris stimulated by the penis’ position inside.

So don’t worry if she doesn’t moan in ecstasy while you two get it on. She’s not broken and he’s not bad at sex – chances her she just needs a little clit action to help her along the way. (And there are some incredible sex toys out there to help make it happen faster and easier!)

They have twice as many nerve endings as penises.

Though seemingly small, the clitoris is a mighty pleasure player featuring about 8,000 responsive nerve endings – compared to the roughly 4,000 that the penis carries around. This is one of the reasons why some women find it almost painful to have their clitorises touched directly with the clitoral hood pulled back. Too many feels!

There’s no ONE WAY to stimulate it.

We’re constantly looking for the best, the correct, the most perfect way to make her cum (understandably so!) but believe it or not, every clitoris – and the woman attached – is like a snowflake. No two are alike physically or sensually, so chances are that the rulebook you read in Maxim or Cosmo isn’t going to apply to every woman on the block.

Instead, ask her what she likes. Maybe she’ll even show you – SUPER HOT FOREPLAY ALERT. Some women like soft strokes while others prefer hard pressure and there’s no way to know without asking the source. Because at the end of the day, only she really knows best – but if she isn’t sure, finding out what feels good together can be an amazingly intimate and sexy collaborative effort that could ultimately bring you closer as a couple. (Or at least closer to orgasm.)

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6 Important Erogenous Zones You Probably Overlook

The human body is chock full of sensitive zones and pleasure places that we love tickled, teased and licked for days. They can help us get in the mood and even reach orgasms easier, which is why they’re often our go-to spots when we’re getting it on. But there are some lesser-known areas that don’t get as much attention as do the usual suspects (hello, clit and penis!) but should probably be part of our pre-game routine every time.

Inner Elbow

Also known as the antecubital space or elbow pit, this part of the arm sits between your bicep and forearm and is covered by a soft and sensitive patch of skin. This area is extremely responsive to sensation (no wonder we hate getting our blood drawn!) but when touched in the right way, it can send tingles and shivers all over your body. Try gentle, slow stroking motions that run all the way down your forearm and watch your partner’s eyes roll in the back of his or her head!

 Lower Abdomen

It might seem like a no-brainer, but the lower stomach is often forgotten as we move from mouth to penis or nipples to clits. Many of us carry a lot of stress in the abdomen and without some TLC, this tension can get in the way of letting our juices flow. We recommend giving the area around and below the belly button some attention with kisses and light licking – and try incorporating some soft stroking while you make out, just to up the sensation ante a tad.

Underarms

People often feel super squeamish about armpits. We associate them with icky smells, sweaty hair, and general “ew gross” sentiments. But our underarms share connective tissue with our shoulders, upper back, and other nearby parts and can greatly affect the level of tension we feel in our upper bodies.

Plus, our armpits play a crucial role in keeping us healthy! The underarms are home to part of our lymphatic system, a biological highway of sorts that helps the body eliminate toxins, waste and other unwanted icky stuff. Light massage can help the lymph nodes flow better while providing a lovely tickly sensation, thanks to its delicate skin. Paying gentle attention not only feels good, but also promotes relaxation and better health!

Nipples

Before you say, “No, duh!” just wait – there’s a special reason why we included this on our list. Many men and women love to have their nipples licked and rubbed (even pinched!), but there’s research out there that explains why women respond to this stimulation with orgasmic results.

A 2011 study used an MRI to watch the different parts of the brain that become active when certain parts of the female body are stimulated. They found that touching the nipples lit up the same part of the brain as did touching the clitoris, vagina and cervix – which might explain why some women report having orgasms just from nipple stimulation alone!

So next time you touch the nipples as part of the usual foreplay routine, think about making it a combo deal. Lick the nipples while rubbing the clitoris; pinch the nipples while kissing the labia – see what happens when you combine intense erogenous zones. We have a feeling that the results will be more than promising.

Scalp

Most of us love having our hair washed or our heads scratched because it feels good? But scientists have been trying to find out why, and the results so far offer some interesting insight.

One scientist found that scratching the skin activates areas of the brain associated with memory and pleasure while suppressing those related to pain and emotions. Scratching creates a temporary sense of pain, which causes the brain to respond and relieve the discomfort by releasing serotonin – the same mood-altering neurotransmitter that’s produced during orgasm. This may be why scratching the scalp can promote relaxation and a sense of happiness (albeit briefly) and is a welcome addition to any bedroom routine.

 Upper Lip – and Above!         

Our lips are used for lots of things in and out of the bedroom, but when was the last time you simply touched them? The soft sloping area between your upper lip and the tip of your nose is super-sensitive and responds to gentle sweeping touches. Try outlining the upper lip with the tip of your index finger and follow the lines up to your partner’s nose as you kiss or nibble the neck or cheeks. We’re all accustomed to the feeling of another set of lips, rather than a soft finger, on our mouths which is why this welcome change of pace can feel incredibly titillating!

Any other overlooked pleasure zones that you particularly enjoy?  Let us know in the comments below!

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The Best Ways for Men & Women to Masturbate

Some of the best sex we have is when we’re all by ourselves, and that’s one of the many reasons why masturbating is so beneficial! While it might seem pretty self-explanatory, there isn’t just one way to self-love and we’re here to show you how to enhance your hands and blow your minds!

For the GUYS!

1. Give It a Tug
As you’re stroking and getting close to orgasm, take a minute to cup your testicles in your non-occupied hand and give ‘em a little squeeze. Then right as the wave of ecstasy comes, gently (or not gently, depending on your preferences!) tug and pull your testicles down toward your anus. Many men find this extra attention feels incredibly erotic and can help make orgasms feel even more intense.

2. Caress Your Corona
Your corona is a little bundle of nerve endings on the underside of the head of your penis. It’s one of the most sensitive spots on your shaft and many men find it pleasurable to tickle or rub that area as they get it on (with themselves).

So next time you’re jerking off, try lubing up your hand (or your stroker, if you’re using a sex toy for men) and putting most of the massaging focus on the corona – especially as you get closer to orgasm. You can even get both hands involved and use your left to stroke this sweet spot while the right keeps a tight grip on everything else.

3. Buzz Your Balls (and Everywhere Else!)
Our hands can only do so much, which is why we love the wonderful world of sex toys! The skin on and around the testicles, as well as the perineum (aka the taint), are incredibly sensitive to touch and vibration – and when combined with your regular stroking motion, can incite an incredible explosion of…pleasure!

Try a mini vibe, like a bullet massager, or something that attaches to your finger for easy use. Use your free hand to run the sex toy along your testicles and sensitive areas or, if you want full-power results, press it firmly against your taint just as you reach orgasm for a big finish.

For the GALS!

1. Free the Nipples!
The nipples are an important, yet often forgotten, erogenous zone that sexuality researchers have found connects to the same receptors of the brain as your clitoris – so why not combine the two for double the pleasure?

But sometimes our fingers can only go so far, which is why we love compact and easy-to-use mini vibes that can be worn on your fingertips! Add a little lube and glide the vibe along your areolas in circular motions with one hand while you leave your other hand free to fondle whatever else you’re in the mood for. We guarantee you’ll feel heightened pleasure and might even reach orgasm faster as a result of the double-team touching!

2. Try a Sex Toy
Many women use their fingers, pillows or firm objects to rub, hump and wiggle against while they masturbate, which is a great way to do the diddling deed. But sometimes our bodies can grow accustomed to the same styles of stimulation, which is why we encourage women to switch things up and incorporate new techniques.

There are many sex toys out there designed to be unobtrusive and easy to use for first-timers or women who don’t want to deal with a massive massager. Some attach to your fingers and stay in place with a stretchy ring while others are hand-held and pack a lot of power into a tiny shape, which means putting them under whatever you’re humping on or even directly against your clitoris can result in raging orgasms. They’re especially useful when you need to rub one out in a pinch!

3. Breathe
Yeah yeah, we know. “Breathe” is a favorite of yoga instructors and hipsters looking for something to tattoo on their wrists, but when it comes to better sex, they’re on to something. There are ways to incorporate different breathing techniques into your masturbation routine and experience lovely results, and they won’t leave you breathless or lightheaded – unless you want them to.

Our bodies need oxygen to keep our blood flowing smoothly and the more we inhale, the better our blood can reach the key parts of our bodies. Notice when you’re masturbating if you tend to hold your breath and try letting out some air as you get closer to orgasm. And when you start climbing the peak stages of pleasure, make an effort to breathe deeeeep and exhale completely in a steady rhythm. By the time you climax, your orgasm will grow intensely and you may feel an incredibly satisfying release unlike anything you’ve ever felt. That’s the power of oxygen!

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Sex Outside the Box! – How to Revive a Boring Sex Life

Sex is great and we all love to do it, but sometimes we get stuck in a bedroom rut that no amount of hugging, kissing and humping can get us out of. Fortunately you’re not alone – it can be super-easy to fall into a routine that takes some of the spontaneous excitement out of our favorite intimate past time. So to take some of the pressure off; we’ve compiled a list of quick and easy tip to help freshen up your love life fast. And you can try some of them tonight!

1. Switch Positions
Certain sexual positions feel better than others and oftentimes we tend to stick with the ones that we’re most confident with. Whatever the reason – maybe we like the way our bodies look in doggy style or we know that missionary gives us guaranteed orgasms – doing it the same way over and over can simply leave us wanting more.

We’re not talking trying a pretzel-like yoga position or trying every page out of the Kama Sutra, but even adding a simple position that you don’t usually try can bring enough variety to your sex session to amp up the intimacy.

So think about your routine. Is it missionary, spooning, then finishing on top? Or starting on top and finishing doggy? (Or is it missionary all the way every day?) Change the pattern and incorporate something you typically skip – you never know what a little spontaneity might do for your (or your partner’s) excitement level!

2. Do It Someplace New
We all know that sex typically happens in bed. (We hear some people even sleep there, too!) But what would happen if you laid down a blanket on the bathroom floor or used your (clean) kitchen table as a stage?

There’s something intensely erotic about doing the deed in unconventional places, but that doesn’t mean you have to think TOO far outside of the box. Subtle changes like doing it in front of a mirror or propping yourself up against the kitchen counter can be enough to feel like you’re banging for the first time.

Different surfaces, different sights, different scents – almost every sense gets triggered and inspired when you’re having sex in a new part of the house, so no need to pump yourself up about getting it on in public. That can come later, once you’re a little more comfortable with the idea, but keep in mind that it’s not exactly legal. So don’t tell anyone we told you to try it. [wink wink]

3. Try a Sex Toy
Sex toys are incredible sexual enhancers that can stimulate parts of the body that fingers, hands and other body parts simply can’t. Sex toys are new territory for some people and may be a bit intimidating at first, but fortunately there’s a plethora of products made for couples to enjoy together that enhance the experience for both. (Sex toys can actually make it easier for men and women to have orgasms – sometimes for the very first time!)

Vibrating rings and vibrating erection rings (also known as cock rings) are great for helping prevent premature ejaculation and helping him last longer during sex. The vibrating motor stimulates her clitoris at the same time so she can get closer to orgasm while he stays nice and hard.

Mini vibes and massagers are perfect additions to certain sex positions where some clitoral vibration can help her reach orgasm. Finger vibes are easy to use and don’t get in the way, while wand massagers and bigger vibrators can be a little bulky but help get the job done with much more power.

And there are all kinds of more advanced sex toys you can test out, too, like feather ticklers, anal plugs and sexy bondage gear as seen in Fifty Shades of Grey. So start with some beginner-level toys and work your way up to the big leagues – the journey will be super-fun and super-sexy, plus you and your partner will build even stronger intimacy along the way!

4. Role Play
This is a classic tip, but sometimes roleplaying can feel a little overwhelming to those of us who might be a little shy. So start simple – don’t worry about costumes and don’t try to pretend you’re some flirty cocktail waitress or suave piano man picking up a “stranger” at the bar.

Start by testing out a different technique – maybe you’re usually passive and let your partner make most of the moves. Make your mindset, “I know what I want, and all I want is YOU” and give your partner a thrill. (Just make sure you two talk about the idea first so you’re both on the same page!) Take charge and see how it feels to be a tad dominant.

Or try spending a night together where intercourse isn’t an option. Like you’ve just met and want to save the official “deed” for a special night. This will let you both get creative with pleasuring each other in ways that often can be forgotten when you’re so focused on the final “goal.” Touching, caressing, licking, cuddling – enjoy each other like you’ve only been dating for a week or two and see what kind of spark you might re-ignite.

5. Laugh
We take sex SO SERIOUSLY sometimes, to the point of almost forgetting to have FUN. And there are all kinds of understandable reasons for it – pressure to please, pressure to perform, self-consciousness and insecurity. We’ve all felt at least one (if not all) of those at some point while naked with a partner. But if you both can remember (and communicate) that you’re in it together as a team, you’ll find the stress and anxiety melt away and possibly even replaced with comfort and closeness.

Believe it or not, there’s a good chance that your partner is feeling the same way you are, so once you share what’s on your mind, you can embark on an entirely new journey together. And if something gets bumped, pinched, knocked over or super messy, all you need to do is laugh together. Because it’s not the end of the world; these kinds of snafus and unexpected events often can help make your sexual experiences unique and special – nothing like that fake stuff you see in the movies!

Have suggestions not listed? Share your tips on how to revive a boring sex life!

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BuzzFeed has just released a list of 16 sex toys that they believe are better than a boyfriend (or girlfriend, we might add!) and The Screaming O made it to two top spots. We were the ONLY manufacturer with popular sex toys for under $20 – some topped the charts at $200 or more! – which proves that some of the best orgasms come from small packages!

BuzzFeed staff member Casey Gueren recommended the My Secret Screaming O Vibrating Mascara for its compact shape and clever disguise – it literally looks just like a tube of mascara – and its ability to give powerful orgasms without a ton of effort. And next in line was the brand new Screamin Demon, which features little flexible horns that cradle the clitoris for better orgasms.

“It’s almost like a tiny little vulva, but with vibrations and horns,” Casey says. “Human anatomy can’t compete with that.”

And while that’s true, Screaming O representative Conde Aumann wants to remind sex toy shoppers that while these portable and affordable sex toys are great on their own, they can feel AMAZING when used with a partner!

“The Screaming O makes easy-to-use mini vibes and sex toys that help couples enjoy sex together with fun shapes, bright colors and really powerful motors,” Aumann says. “Our Vibrating Mascara and Screamin Demon feel amazing on nipples and testicles during foreplay and are so unobtrusive, they easily fit in your hand to give your fingers a break for those ladies who like (or need) clitoral stimulation in order to orgasm in certain sex positions.”

Check out Casey’s recommendations for yourself! The Screaming O sex toys are so affordable, you can buy more than one and see which one you – and maybe your partner – like the most!

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Make Sex Last Forever…and Ever…and Ever with Ofinity & Ofinity Plus Erection Rings

Jan. 28, 2015

The Screaming O has proudly introduced the Ofinity and Ofinity Plus, two unique cock rings featuring dual-isolation design for improved erection enhancement. The idea came to us in a stroke of genius that evolved into a very exciting R&D process – and the result has turned into one of this season’s most-wanted sex toys for couples!

These stretchy one-size-fits-most sex toys slow blood flow to the penis and testicles with separate snug-tight rings in a figure-8 shape that helps men last longer in the bedroom while providing enhanced sensitivity. And with the option of vibration with the Ofinity Plus, couples can add powerful stimulation to the situation for an intensely enjoyable experience.

Simply stretch the top ring around the shaft and the bottom ring around the testicles and position the connecting piece comfortably in between – and the Ofinity Plus boasts a bonus vibrating motor that massages that incredibly sensitive area.

The Ofinity and Ofinity Plus can be worn in multiple ways to enhance sensation for each partner, depending on what kind of experience you desire. Each package features easy-to-understand “how to wear” diagrams so you can choose which way you want to enjoy your new Screaming O – or try both to find your favorite!

And as with all stretchy Screaming O products, the Ofinity and Ofinity Plus are made with lab-tested body-safe SEBS to assure a quality, body-safe experience that men and women of all kinds can enjoy.

The Ofinity provides some of the most effective erection enhancement on the market, while the Ofinity Plus becomes the ultimate vibrating cock ring with the push of a button. No matter what your tastes may be, one thing is for sure: the Ofinity and Ofinity Plus are incredibly versatile and help promote stronger orgasms, harder erections, and longer-lasting sex with almost no limits!

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Cancer affects every aspect of your – and your partner’s – life and it can feel almost impossible to find the time, energy and desire for intimacy of any kind. Treatment can be intense and invasive and cause physical changes in the body that, matched with the emotional strain, often extinguish any sense of sexual fire that might still be glowing inside. But while the physical and psychological effects are incredibly real, they don’t have to be barriers in the bedroom. There are a multitude of tools that women can use to help them build, maintain and celebrate their sexuality during every stage of cancer treatment.

The brain is women’s No. 1 most important sex organ. When the mind is distracted, diverted or clouded by stress, sex is often the last activity on her to-do list and orgasms simply don’t come easily – or at all. Logically, cancer causes myriad emotional stresses (depression, anxiety, guilt, fear) but it also wreaks havoc on a woman’s sexual desire, self-worth, self-esteem, and the physical changes that come before, during and after treatment make many women feel simply unsexy.

And even with a positive mindset, the physical effects of cancer can make sex difficult, even painful, which leaves some women feeling “broken” and unequipped to deal with the way their bodies have changed. Vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, nausea, extreme fatigue, loss of sensation – they’re all very common and very real obstacles to navigate alongside what can be an incredibly scary disease. Especially when mastectomy or other surgeries are involved.

But the good news is that, while the mind and body undergo change, your orgasms probably won’t! The American Cancer society reports that almost all women maintain their orgasmic abilities after treatment and that it may be as easy as before – it just takes practice. Fortunately, the experimentation process alone is a wonderfully effective way to build and strengthen intimacy with a partner, even if intercourse or orgasm isn’t the end result!

So as you prepare to make pleasure practice a regular part of your life, here are some important factors to keep in mind as you learn new ways to enjoy a healthy sex life:

• Treatment can be exhausting, so schedule sex for times you feel most rested. Your partner can help with chores and other tiresome activities around the house to help you preserve energy. Just avoid getting busy after eating a heavy meal.

• Getting in the mood can feel like a major feat, so try new forms of foreplay to help put your mind in the game. Sexy music, erotica or even soft porn can get juices flowing, and sensual massage is an intimate and effective way to relax, soothe nerves, and feel comfortable to move on to the next steps. A warm bath or shower with scented candles or oils also can help stimulate the senses – especially if you invite your partner to join in.

• Play with positions. Before treatment, reverse cowgirl or doggy style may have been your go-to’s, but they put incredible strain on joints and energy levels. Try positions that require less physical exertion: lie on your side (spooning-style) or on your back with your hips at the edge of the bed. These positions help you feel deep and satisfying pleasure while keeping you and your partner intimately close, and make it easier for your body to relax and get into the groove.

• Sex might feel different and you may need additional stimulation to help you feel pleasure in the ways you’re accustomed to, especially when it comes to having an orgasm. Sex toys are a fun and effective way to give your (or your partner’s) fingers a rest and can even enhance sensations in an entirely new way, making orgasm come easier and faster. Try massaging a mini vibrator on your clitoris during foreplay or in certain sex positions you find comfortable and see how you feel. You might be surprised by how much you (and your partner!) love it.

• Lubrication is key for comfortable and pleasurable intercourse, but chemotherapy, stress and so many other factors (dehydration, distraction, menopause) get in the way of your vagina’s usual waterworks. An all-natural water-based or silicone-based lubricant is recommended to keep sex slick and smooth while preventing any kind of chafing, rubbing and general discomfort that vaginal dryness can cause.

• Sexual pleasure beyond intercourse can satisfy both partners when penetration just isn’t an option. Intimacy is so much more than penetration and the sense of touch – and being touched – can be incredibly erotic while connecting you and your partner (literally and figuratively) at a different level. Caress, hug and massage the skin and use hands to stimulate sensitive areas while being mindful of areas to avoid. The neck, forearms, stomach, inner thigh and even feet are erogenous zones not to be missed! And remember: orgasms don’t have to be your goal.

• Sex during chemo can require extra precautions: When blood counts are low, avoid intercourse and oral stimulation as they can spread bacteria and increase risk of infection. Birth control is a must if pregnancy is possible.

• Communicate what you’re feeling, both emotionally and physically. You’re both learning how to be intimate with each other in a completely new way and it’s important to give each other space to share concerns, feelings and ideas. Easier said than done, but it feels less scary each time you open up.

• A good sense of humor can help you get through some of the most awkward, uncomfortable and embarrassing parts of the process. It’s OK to laugh at sounds, smells or situations that are way out of your comfort zones – you’re in it together (in more ways than one) and you’ll feel stronger with every chuckle.

There are a wide variety of trusted resources available online and at various treatment centers to learn more about sexual health before, during and after cancer – the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (one of the nation’s leading cancer hospitals) even devotes an entire program to it. Don’t feel afraid to ask your doctor for more information; sex and intimacy is one of the most common concerns of women and couples undergoing treatment. You’re not alone: breast cancer affects 1 in 8 U.S. women at some point in their lives, and preserving the intimate relationships they hold with their partners – and especially themselves – is key to maintaining a healthy and happy sense of wellbeing during one of the most stressful times in life.

The post Inspiring Intimacy (and Having Sex) During Cancer appeared first on The Best-Selling Vibrating Ring | Screaming O.

It’s no secret that sex is good for our health. Aside from bigger smiles, boosts in self-confidence, and endorphin rushes, orgasms have a variety of health benefits that go deeper (way deeper) than the obvious. And there are direct correlations between orgasms and breast cancer prevention, which is as mind-blowing as it is amazing. So do it and do it all the time – in the name of health, of course!

Among other hormones, orgasms release a neurotransmitter called oxytocin, which is responsible for a slew of incredible effects – pain relief, intense joy and stress-relief to name a few. But this powerful and important hormone also has been attributed to the delay in development of breast cancer cells. In 1994, a team of scientists in Italy performed a study that involved treating breast cancer cells in mice and rats with oxytocin and measuring each cell’s reaction. The results showed a measurable link between the “love hormone” and inhibited breast cancer cell growth – an exciting, though unexpected, effect!

The body releases a lingering flood of oxytocin along with every orgasm, so naturally, we’ve added “do it daily” to our breast cancer prevention best practice list. But sometimes having an orgasm isn’t so easy – and that’s what we’re here for. Here are 3 things that will make O-faces come a little easier:

1. Lubrication
One of the many amazing abilities of the female body is self-lubrication. Sometimes, women get turned on like a faucet, creating their own wet wonderland between their legs and facilitating some incredibly pleasant sex action. Other times, they could use a little slickness assistance, and that’s where lube comes in.

Lubricant was created not to fix a problem or facilitate some kind of kinky fetish (though it certainly fulfills both of those roles, if you want to get technical); it’s here to protect our delicate and beloved lady parts from the discomfort of dryness – and make sex feel so so so much better! Any amount of dryness “down there” can cause unwanted friction that can make intercourse feel uncomfortable and even painful. Try adding lube (even if you don’t think you need it) and see how it helps the sexual experience!

And for the solo folks, lubricant can transform an ordinary masturbation experience into something very special – and for many women, help make it easier to have an orgasm. Most women experience pleasure from stimulating their clitorises and adding lubrication can transform the sensation into a smooth glide across sensitive skin. And adding lube to the nipples heightens the feeling of touch and can get you even closer to the big O. Practice makes perfect, so stock up and start rehearsing!

2. Meditation
The brain is the most important sex organ, especially for women, and if it’s not focused on the task at hand, there’s a good chance that orgasms won’t come easily. But with so much going on in our lives every day, it can be tough to just turn it all off – and that’s how meditation can help. Even just a few minutes dedicated to clearing and calming the mind can make a world of difference in the sex department.

Try this: lie on your back with your eyes closed. Take a deep breath in and a deep breath out. Count how many seconds it takes to fill up your lungs and then exhale in the same amount of time. 1…2…3…4…keep that up, in and out, until all you’re focused on is breathing. Try challenging yourself with slower, deeper breaths and see how long it takes for your heartbeat to slow and your mind to mellow out. You’ll be amazing at how quickly it can work – and how fast it can help you get in the mood to get busy!

3. Vibration
Some women didn’t have their first orgasm until they discovered vibrators. Sex toys like these take the strenuous work out of self-love and give your fingers (or whatever home-made tools you might be using) a break. And thanks to technological advancements, you can find vibrators that massage, tickle, tease and intensely stimulate wherever you put them with multiple speeds and various functions.

Start small – mini vibes are portable, compact, easy to use and often cost a lot less than their more advanced counterparts. Once you feel what you like (and what you don’t), you can shop around for the perfect sex toy that’ll help you get closer to orgasm every time you try.

Orgasms can be a challenge, but they don’t always have to! Use one (or all!) of our tips and get ready to release that O all day long – oxytocin, that is! You’ll feel lighter and brighter knowing you’re doing your body good in so many more ways than one. Hooray for good health!

The post Sex is Good for Our Health – How to (or at Least Try to) Orgasm Every Time! appeared first on The Best-Selling Vibrating Ring | Screaming O.