You’ve just had an intense BDSM session with your partner, you’re coming down from an adrenaline high, and you’re thinking to yourself, what comes next?
But just because playtime is over doesn’t mean it’s time to disconnect. It’s time for aftercare–the chill after the thrill. This is an essential part of restoring emotional and physical balance once kinky sex concludes.
So, why is having a plan like this so important? Let’s explore…
The Significance of Aftercare
A BDSM sex scene can bring up intense feelings of excitement, fear, or vulnerability. Aftercare acts as a check-in, ensuring that you and your partner can return to your everyday roles together.
It also can inform your behavior in future sex sessions. Use this time to discuss what you enjoyed and would like more of, and–if applicable–anything you didn’t enjoy as much and don’t want to repeat.
Additionally, know that while this practice is a BDSM concept, there’s plenty that vanilla folks can learn from it, too. Communicating about your sexual needs and preferences can help avoid misunderstandings and unmet needs–kinky or not.
It’s important to note that while partner aftercare is vital for those who want it, not everybody does. For some, alone time is their aftercare, and for those who do need aftercare, the type required can vary greatly. So, make sure to check in with your partner about their needs before things get steamy. That way, you can avoid any hurt feelings afterward.
Photo: Ketut Subiyanto via Pexels
How Should I Provide Aftercare?
Communicating with your partner should always be your first step, but there are plenty of tips and tricks to provide excellent aftercare.
Emotional aftercare can be a straightforward check-in about what you enjoyed and what you didn’t. But it can also be much deeper as it can be an opportunity to reflect on the feelings that arose during your scene and whether anything felt triggering.
Physical aftercare could be as simple as offering affection, such as holding or hugging your partner. But it can also include practical steps like giving them a warm blanket, some water to rehydrate, or helping them remove uncomfortable clothing.
Some people like a change of surroundings after a kinky scene; for instance, they might want to go for a walk, or they might just want to reset with some quality sleep. Remember, BDSM can be tiring, and it’s common to experience a crash afterward as the adrenaline recedes, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead.
Photo: Ketut Subiyanto via Pexels
Common Pitfalls – What to Watch Out For
Now you know why aftercare is so important and how it can be expressed. But this wouldn’t be a complete guide to aftercare without pointing out some things to be aware of.
A common misconception is that aftercare only occurs immediately after sex or kink play. Rather, aftercare can be an ongoing process in the hours and days following the session. Continue sharing feedback and processing emotions, offering appropriate care, comfort, and reassurance.
If you’re into BDSM, you may have felt “the drop” before. This term refers to a drop in one’s mood following a scene. Sometimes, this can happen right away, but it can also hit after a day or two. Aftercare helps smooth the transition and minimize the drop.
Another tip is to go at the pace of the slowest partner. The bottom can often need aftercare first, but it’s important to recognize that tops require this, too. Be willing to switch roles and care for each other.
And remember, aftercare needs can change over time or depending on the type of scene you’ve engaged in, so check in regularly.
The Takeaway
Aftercare is an integral part of BDSM sex practice and can significantly benefit any kind of intimate relationship. By nurturing each other during this time, you can make play more pleasurable while also building and strengthening your emotional bond.
Embrace aftercare as an opportunity for care and connection. Let it be the sweet end to your spicy session.
