Every year thousands of people will make the decision to abstain from sexual activity, whether it be for religious purposes, personal cleansing or based on personal desire. Throughout this period of celibacy, however, one rarely thinks about how inactivity can affect sexual organs and the sexual lives they hope to return to after the commitment.
With this thought in mind, I solicited the expertise of certified sexologist and family medicine physician Dr. Rachael Ross to explain the affects of celibacy on the genitals.
“Sometimes your genitals go to sleep if it’s been a while,” says Dr. Ross. “After periods of sexual inactivity, there tends to be a decrease in your sexual responsiveness.” Some women complain about a lack of sexual desire, vaginal dryness and an inability to become aroused after experiencing extended periods of celibacy or abstinence. As for men, erections may be difficult to maintain when fresh out of celibacy, but this is normal according to this sexologist.
“Don’t panic,” advises Dr. Ross. “If you are worried about this, then PRACTICE. Ladies, get out your mini massager or your rabbit; guys watch your favorite sexual video and get blood flowing to your genitals to remember what pleasure feels like.”
When blood flows to the genitals it brings with it oxygen that not only helps maintain healthy cellular growth within the genitals but it also heightens sensitivity.RELATED: Same Relationship, But Different Sex Drives: Can It Work?
It’s not a commonly known fact, but the vagina and penis are made of muscles that retain memory just as the other muscle groups of the body do. When that memory is lost, genitals have to be reminded of what this activity feels like.
It may take some time to get back into the normal swing if sex, but patience, practice and a little assistance is necessary. “Invest in condoms and water-based lube,” suggests Dr. Ross. “The vagina may not be as moist as it used to be and erections may not be as strong, but like anything they both need a warm up first.”
For couples concerned about getting back into sex after celibacy, tantric sex can assist in reestablishing intimacy, waking up the genitals and rekindling sexual desire.
Practicing weeks of intimate touching, synchronized breath, erotic and genital massage and reciting positive affirmations throughout without the use of penetrative sex are excellent ways to ease back into a sex life without panic or stress.
To learn more about tantric sex, click here.
Glamazon Tyomi is a freelance writer, model and sex educator with a deeply rooted passion for spreading the message of sex positivity and encouraging the masses to embrace their sexuality. Her website, www.sexperttyomi.com, reaches internationally as a source for advice and information for the sexually active/curious. Follow her on Twitter at @glamazontyomi.
