Think about the last time you were sexually aroused – what was your body's reaction? Your mind was probably hyper-excited and you might had trouble thinking straight. And you suddenly felt very hot, right? 

Well, there’s a reason that "hot and bothered" is used to describe when you’re turned on — our bodies do tend to heat up when we are sexually excited — and if you're curious about why, keep reading.

The science of arousal and body temperature 

What happens to our bodies when we are aroused?

First things first: Arousal, our body’s natural reaction to sex, is what prepares us for the heat of the moment.

What happens when we're aroused, though? To find out, let’s look at the four stages of the human sexual response cycle. First published by sex researchers Masters and Johnson back in the 1960s, the stages consist of:

1. Excitement: in this stage, the heart rate and the breathing increase, the blood flows into erogenous zones which causes them to harden and swell, and vaginal lubrication starts. 

2. Plateau: in this stage, all the previous response continues to increase and stabilize. For people with vulvas, the clitoris might become more sensitive, and people with penises might release precum. 

3. Orgasm: this stage is the peak of the sexual stimuli when all the pent-up sexual tension is released during a climax. People might experience involuntary muscle contractions, and people with penises might experience ejaculation. 

4. Resolution: during this stage, the body returns to the baseline functioning. The heart rate slows down, the body temperature drops and the muscles relax. 

However, this isn’t the only model of arousal. Another, known as the Basson model — founded by Dr. Rosemary Basson — suggests that women often make a conscious decision to become aroused, which can then lead to sexual desire. It also suggests that women are often sexually neutral, but can become aroused in the right context, with the right cues, and if they are willing.

With either model, though, comes big physiological changes to our bodies as we become aroused — making our temperature increase — which can lead to hot flashes, red patches on your skin and a flushed look.

One small study found that half to three-quarters of women and a quarter of men reported experiencing the sex flush and having red patches develop around the abdomen, chest, breasts (for women), and neck, spreading up to their face. 

The role of increased blood flow

We know that the temperature of our bodies rises when we’re getting it on, but still, researchers are not 100 percent sure why it happens. But it could have something to do with blood flow, to the genital region, as well as everywhere in our bodies.

While everyone experiences pleasure slightly differently, it is normal for people with vulvas to report feeling their genitals warm up and for folks with penises to become even more erect. When the blood flow increases in our genitals, they become more sensitive to stimulation.

How hormones affect the temperature 

Another thing at play? Our hormones. Oestrogen, one of the main female sex hormones, controls the part of the brain that is responsible for regulating body temperature. Testosterone, a primary sex hormone in males, and one of the sex hormones in females also plays a part in body temperature regulation. 

When we orgasm, our brain also releases a cocktail of feel-good hormones, and one of them, oxytocin, otherwise known as the "love hormone" can have an impact on our emotional and physical warmth. Research shows that oxytocin helps regulate our emotional and physical warmth, and of course, even increases body temperature. 

Everyone is different

It's important to note that all of our bodies are different, and that includes our body temperature. Some people might find it easier to heat up, while others take longer. Some might sweat faster and more, while others are the opposite. 

If you’re a person going through menopause or a hormonal imbalance, you might have a different experience when it comes to body temperature changes then you did in other parts of your life. Either way, everyone is different, and that’s okay!

How to improve physical arousal 

Struggling with getting very aroused? We’ve got you. Here are our top tried-and-true tips and tricks to get you hot and bothered (and much more sensitive.)

1. Try out more foreplay 

More foreplay never hurt anyone. In fact, during intimacy, foreplay alone or with your partner(s) can be what takes your experience to the next level. This can look like:

• If you’re playing solo, dedicate some time to seduce yourself. That might involve taking a relaxing shower or bath beforehand, putting on some sexy background music, admiring your body and intimate areas in the mirror, and teasing yourself like you would allow your partner to tease you. 

• Taking things slow. Make it into a slow and sensual process of exploration, instead of a quick race to an orgasm, which doesn’t have to be the goal of sex if it doesn’t feel right. 

• Focus on creating a sensual experience, with your partner(s), where you focus on the sensations of their hands, lips, and body against yours. Don't rush and try to fully relax and enjoy the moment.

2. Try an arousal enhancer 

Another way to enhance your arousal? Try out an arousal serum or oil.

Arousal enhancers are designed to increase the amount of bodily fluids that your body produces. This can be especially beneficial for women who have experienced menopause, hysterectomies, hormone imbalances and more.

Of course, we recommend adding Bloomi's Luxe Arousal serum to your cart. It is the perfect choice if you want a way to get the blood pumping during a solo self-pleasure experience, or during partnered sex. It is compatible with latex and silicone materials, like toys, or condoms.

When you are ready to use it, just apply a few pumps of the serum onto your intimate skin, rub it in, and wait a few minutes for it to start working its magic. 

On the other hand, if you’re looking for an oil, we can’t recommend our Desire Sensual Pleasure Oil enough. Crafted with botanical aphrodisiacs such as Damiana and nutmeg, this luxurious feeling oil can heighten sensations, enhance blood circulation, and of course, make your temperatures rise.

Ready to give it a try for yourself?

Did you recently have a baby? If so, you might be experiencing a little postpartum vaginal dryness. First of all, congrats! Second of all, you’re not alone: Vaginal dryness after giving birth is extremely common. In fact, nearly 60 percent of new moms experience it. 

But you might be wondering: Is this the new normal? Will my vagina ever go back to normal? All completely valid concerns. The answer? Yes!

One day, you and your bits will feel comfortable, again. Luckily, until that day, there are things you can do to help. We’ve got our tried-and-true postpartum tips, below.

Why does vaginal dryness postpartum happen?

1. Hormonal Changes 

First up, we all know that pregnancy will do some wild things to your hormones — but those changes in hormones don’t end after you give birth. While progesterone and estrogen spike during pregnancy, it takes just 24 hours post-birth for these hormones to dip back down to pre-pregnancy levels. If you are breastfeeding, your body will scale back estrogen levels even further to aid with milk supply.

You can blame estrogen, or lack thereof, for several common postpartum issues such as night sweats, hot flashes, and, you guessed it, vaginal dryness. That’s because estrogen is responsible for keeping the vagina lubricated and elastic. As a result of less estrogen coursing through the body, the vulva, and its surrounding tissues, including the vaginal canal, will become thinner, dryer, and more prone to inflammation. Thankfully, it’s only temporary. 

2. Postpartum Thyroiditis

Another potential culprit is postpartum thyroiditis. This is inflammation of the thyroid gland and affects 10 percent of postpartum women. Normal thyroid function returns within 12 to 18 months after giving birth for 80 percent of women. Postpartum thyroiditis is a cause of vaginal dryness, and it may also cause: 

• Palpitations 

• Mood swings 

• Shakiness 

• Weight gain 

• Fatigue 

• Dry skin 

3. Decrease in Sex Drive 

It is also incredibly common to simply not be in the mood for bedroom play following the birth of a child. 21 percent of women report a complete loss of libido, and this lack of interest can cause vaginal dryness, too. No worries, though. For many women, sex drive and natural lubricant will naturally return. Wherever you fall, you are in good company, and there are some things that you can do in the meantime to help.

How do you know if you have postpartum vaginal dryness?

The number one symptom of postpartum vaginal dryness is, of course, vaginal dryness. But on top of that, one may notice pain, burning, or an itching sensation. While painful sex, itching, and burning are far from desirable side effects of giving birth, rest assured that, given time, everything should heal and return to normal. And if it doesn’t, make sure to talk to your doctor about your experience to seek additional help and guidance.

How long should it last?

Studies show that 60 percent of women experience postpartum dryness a month or two after giving birth. Six months postpartum this goes down to 43 percent of women. No two bodies are exactly the same, but in a large percentage of women, postpartum dryness is a thing of the past (or until the next baby) within 18 months of giving birth. 

Tips for managing postpartum vaginal dryness after birth naturally

A healthy sex life can help keep a good connection with your partner, but that’s easier said than done following the birth of a child. Sleepless nights and a complete change in identity can be hard on any marriage, especially on the mother. Add vaginal dryness to the mix, and bedroom play may start to feel like a luxury from the past. 

The key is to still make time for intimacy, even when it feels impossible. Using lubricant to keep things moist can help one feel more in the mood while boosting overall comfort. 

Are there any natural solutions to cure postpartum dryness? 

While there is no cure for vaginal dryness postpartum, there are things you do to help promote overall vaginal health:

• Chinese medicine relies on the use of certain herbs such as Shatavari root, licorice root, calendula, Chinese asparagus, and comfrey.

• Interestingly, a 2014 study that analyzed findings from 731 women found that eating an apple a day correlated to better sex life and more vaginal lubrication. Maybe we should change the old saying to, “An apple a day keeps the dryness away.”

Effective Solutions for Postpartum Vaginal Dryness

Eating endless apples and still not noticing a difference? Bloomi is here to help with our line of safe and effective personal lubricants and oils. A quality lubricant keeps the vagina moisturized while reducing the risk of discomfort and increasing pleasure. 

What is the best lubricant for postpartum dryness? 

The best lubricant for postpartum dryness is one that works as an effective moisturizer while remaining gentle on the skin. Bloomi’s Delight Oil-Based Personal Lubricant ($15) is a great option as oil-based lubricants tend to retain moisture longer while still being safe and easy on your skin. 

The Lube Bundle ($26) offers the best of both worlds with one oil-based and one water-based lube at a discounted price. 

In addition, Desire Sexual Pleasure Oil ($24) can be used during intimate moments or throughout the day, just as you would apply lotion to dry skin. 

Reclaim Your Sex Life

Vaginal dryness is a common concern among postpartum women. Using the right lubricant for masturbation or intercourse remains the most proven way to say bye-bye to dryness. 

The postpartum period is far from easy, but rest assured, one-day things start to feel more normal again for a large majority of women, and that includes the vagina. And if it doesn’t, make sure to share that with your doctor to help you dig into why.

During periods of vaginal dryness or not, lubricant makes sex more pleasurable and comfortable for all involved parties. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to reclaim your sex life and kick vaginal dryness to the curb. 

Ultra moisturizing, ultra nourishing: shea butter. Perhaps one of the best-known moisturizers, But this is only one of many wonderful benefits for our health, this potent butter has been used for thousands of years and continues to be a popular beauty ingredient.

"Shea Butter is great for hydration and calms the skin. It goes into the skin well and protects the face from extreme temperatures," says Joanna Vargas, celebrity facialist and founder of Joanna Vargas Spas and Skin Care, in a Byrdie article.

But what is shea butter made of? Is it really that good for your skin? Let’s take a closer look at the shea butter and all of its (many) benefits, below.

Shea butter 101: shea butter benefits, uses, and side effects

What is Shea butter?

African shea butter is a natural vegetable fat that comes from the Karite Nut tree found in the western and central regions of Africa. The tree produces an almond-shaped fruit that has a nut inside — and that’s where the shea butter comes from.

Nicknamed Tree of Life by the local communities due to all the benefits for skin, hair, and health shea butter provides, it is rich in fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins which makes it a hydration powerbomb. There are two types of shea butter you can get on the market:

• Raw: non-processed butter that often has a more yellow hue and it contains more nutrients and healing properties.

• Refined: processed form of shea butter, that is often more white in color and has less nutrients due to some of them being stripped away in the process of refining. 

How we use shea butter in Bloomi products

At Bloomi, we have a selection of premium products that contain shea butter. We always use the best quality shea butter that fits our Clean Standard. 

• Delight, our oil-based personal lubricant, has shea butter in it to help supplement the natural body's lubrication during penetrative sex and can be applied before or during intimacy. 

• Our Nourish intimate skin moisturizer infused with shea butter among other moisturizing and nourishing natural ingredients. It's designed to gently moisturize intimate skin and soften pubic hair. Before use, apply a little bit on your fingertips and let it melt before gently massaging it into your intimate skin and pubic hair. It's for external use only.

What are the real benefits of shea butter?

Like we said, there are so many benefits to using shea butter. Here are a few:

1. It’s super hydrating for your skin

This may be an obvious one, but shea butter benefits for the skin is hydration. Shea butter has linoleic acid, and studies show that this ingredient has anti-inflammatory properties and boosts skin hydration. 

Shea butter is rich in vitamin E and vitamin A and these compounds promote blood circulation and healthy skin cell growth, which helps to improve skin appearance and make it plumper.

2. It’s great for shaving

The American Shea Butter Institute says that premium shea butter is an excellent alternative to regular shaving cream. Shea butter shearing force between the skin and the blade allows for a smoother and closer shave that's also better for the skin. 

Also, due to its moisturizing and healing properties, shea butter nourishes and protects the skin after shaving and there is no need to apply after-shaving lotions or creams.  

3. It can help reduce the signs of aging 

Shea butter has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant components that help neutralize free radical damage, which studies have found can help reduce signs of aging. 

So, regularly applying shea butter or skincare products containing shea butter can help you look young and youthful for longer. 

4. It could prevent hair breakage

Cetyl esters is the ingredient found in shea butter that is responsible for locking in moisture. With that, studies found that shea butter can help prevent hair breakage.

5. It also might help treat dandruff

Shea butter's moisturizing properties are also useful in treating dandruff — which can be pesky and hard to get rid of. Have no fear, though. Shea butter is here to help. One study found that when used with other moisturizing products decreases the flakes and prevents flare-ups.

Bloomi Clean Standard overview

At Bloomi, we believe that everyone deserves clean and non-toxic intimate care products that feel good and do good for our bodies. That's why with the help of top sexual wellness experts and academic research we have created a Clean Standard for our intimate care products.

Our products have plant-based formulas that are free of vulvar allergens like glycerin, gluten, parabens, fragrances, and sulfates so you don't have to worry about having an unpleasant reaction to something. 

Our toys are made from non-toxic ingredients like medical-grade silicone and stainless steel so you can enjoy solo and partnered pleasure knowing you're using the best quality toys. 

And our packaging is made with sustainable, compostable, and recyclable materials, so you know your favorite intimate products are not harming the environment.

There are so many lubes out there — but for some folks, it can still feel like a shameful and taboo topic. Luckily, openness around sex and self-pleasure has been steadily growing over time, helping to rid ourselves of the misconceptions around lube, especially.

Sex coach Myisha Battle says, "I think there is a stigma against using lube in general, particularly for women because producing one's own lubrication is seen as a sign of arousal." According to her, if women find it hard to get wet, this may be misinterpreted as a sign that they aren't turned on enough. 

Yet many women experience desire without getting wet. Carly S., a sex educator, based in New York, adds that she thinks the biggest misconception around lube is that it’s only for penetration. B

But that couldn't be further from the truth. Let's talk about why you want to use a personal lubricant during any sexual activity — how to choose the most perfect one for you, below.

What can you use a personal lubricant for?

Lube can be used for many things: sex with a partner, solo play, with toys and more. But using lube during masturbation, in particular, is a great way to spice up your self-pleasure routine. According to Battle, applying lube to your hand or sex toy during masturbation can take your pleasure to the next level.

"Using lube during masturbation can sometimes take you to deeper levels of pleasure because you get to immediately experience the gliding effect that your own lubricant provides without waiting for your body to produce it," she says.

During solo or partnered play, lube reduces friction, which will decrease any discomfort and increase your pleasure. Lube can help take the pressure off the body and assist in getting the blood flowing, which will ultimately increase one's arousal and help stimulate an orgasm. Steif says that lube also cuts down on friction, which can cause irritation. According to her, wet hands and wet toys just feel better.

"Even for solo sessions without penetration, making everything more slippery will also make everything feel better!" she says. Beyond this, even if you don't have issues producing lubrication on your own, lube can heighten your sensations. 

The important thing to keep in mind is that there is absolutely nothing shameful about using lube, whether you're using it by yourself or with a partner.

Choosing the best lubricant: water-based vs. oil-based vs. silicone-based

When choosing the best personal lubricant for you, consider what your body needs and what feels good. Also, consider what you'll be using the lube the most for – solo or partnered play, with toys, condoms, or for anal. While certain lubes can be used in most scenarios, usually, the best option will depend on the sexual act.

When selecting a lube, both Battle and our team at Bloomi recommend natural, water-based lubricants as they "won't disrupt your body's natural pH and flora, but there are other types of lube that are great for specific acts."

"To prolong the use of your toy, be sure to use a water-based lube and wash it according to its care instructions," Steif says to watch out for undesirable ingredients such as glycerin, glycol, and parabens, as these can cause yeast infections, burning sensations, or irritation. 

She also notes that oil-based lube has become more popular recently and that unrefined coconut oil is a good option, although some research suggests coconut oil can lead to yeast infections or pH imbalance since it has antibacterial properties. 

Always do a test run

Make sure to always do a test run with any new intimacy product — but especially lube. Sometime, folks can have allergies that they aren’t aware of, including plants or seeds that may be in clean, all-natural products. To avoid potential intimate skin allergic reactions, be sure to patch-test the item by applying a small amount of the formula to a less-sensitive part of your skin, like your arm. Then check to see if you have any reactions.

Be sure to apply the same amount of product that you would use on your intimate area and keep it on for as long as you'd use it normally. Because some reactions do not happen immediately, try it again in about a week. If your skin doesn't react to the ingredients, it'll likely be safe to use on intimate areas. If it does, wash off the product immediately and keep it away from your intimate skin.

Lastly, if you just shaved or waxed your intimate area, it is not the time to try out your new lubricant. When we remove pubic hair, intimate skin becomes more sensitive and may be more susceptible to irritation or ingrown hairs. As a result, a formula — clean or not — that may not typically inflame the skin could end up causing some irritation like burning or itchiness.

Best lubricant recommendations for sex 

1. Lubricants that are great for anal sex

Sexologist and Bloomi co-founder Rebecca Alvarez Story says water-based lubes, which typically have a pH value of 4.5, are compatible with vaginal pH. However, because anuses have a higher pH value, water-based lubes can sometimes cause irritation. Instead, silicone lubes could be best when engaging in anal play because it's both slippery and doesn't irritate the anus' natural environment.

Uberlube is a great silicone lube that's formulated without harmful ingredients like parabens, alcohol, glycerin, or scents and flavors. It's designed to be used even in water, so if you want to have fun with your partner in a pool or another body of water, you can still use it without issues. One thing to note about silicone lube is that it might stain the bedding, so make sure to put a towel if that's something you want to avoid.

Another best anal lube option is oil-based lubes. They are usually thicker, long-lasting, and don't require frequent reapplication during intimate activity. 

Bloomi's Delight is a clean, oil-based personal lubricant to help you enjoy intimate moments. It is formulated for penile and/or vaginal application, intended to moisturize and lubricate, to enhance the ease and comfort of intimate activity, and supplement the body's natural lubrication.

One thing to keep in mind if you're using oil-based lube for anal sex is that it's not compatible with most condoms. Oil in the lube deteriorates the latex in the condoms, which makes the condom more prone to breakage. In the scenario where you're using a condom during anal sex to prevent STIs, it's better to choose silicone lube. 

2. Perfect for those who want to have vaginal sex

Water-based lube is, in most cases, the best option for vaginal sex. Bloomi's Smooth is a clean, water-based personal lubricant to help you enjoy intimate moments. It is formulated for penile and/or vaginal application, intended to moisturize and lubricate, to enhance the ease and comfort of intimate activity, and supplement the body's natural lubrication.

However, because of its H20 base, it typically dries up in about three to five minutes, so reapplication is key to keeping a nice slip to reduce the risk of vaginal tearing and condom breaking. Water-based lubricants are condom- and sex toy-friendly, so if you regularly use latex or polyisoprene condoms in your pleasure routine, be generous.

Another option is to use oil-based personal lubricant during vaginal sex. Oil-based lubricants, like Bloomi's Delight oil-based personal lubricant, are ideal for those who have sensitive skin, are prone to skin allergic reactions, or are experiencing vaginal dryness due to hormonal changes like menopause.

But remember that oil-based lubricants are not compatible with silicone toys or polyisoprene materials and latex condoms. In fact, oil-based products, in general, will damage and degrade silicone and latex materials over time, which increases the risk of a condom tearing or ruining your new vibrator. 

Instead, oil-based lubricants are best for massaging directly into the intimate skin to increase sensation during sex. Lastly, because of its oily formula, cleanup may require a little more elbow grease, but you are safe just using soap and water. Moreover, oil-based lubes are more prone to staining clothing or bedding, so be careful and lay a towel down just in case. 

3. Amazing personal lubricants for toys

Choosing the best lubricant to use with toys depends on what material your toys are made of. Battle says to be careful when using silicone-based lube on silicone sex toys as it will degrade the silicone in the toy and ultimately make it less body-safe. 

So, if you often use silicone rabbit vibrators, g-spot massagers, or wand vibrators, silicone might not be the best option for you. Instead, choose a personal lubricant that's water-based and won't negatively affect the silicone of your toys. Plus, water-based lubes are super easy to clean up. 

On the other hand, if you use glass or stainless steel toys, you can definitely experiment with silicone and oil-based personal lubricants because they won't affect the material of the toy. And using oil-based lube like Bloomi's Delight might prolong and enhance the experience with a glass or stainless steel toy. 

It's important to note that if you swap between anal and vaginal play when using sex toys, you want to wear a condom to avoid the spread of bacteria and minimize the chances of infection. In that case, an oil-based lube won't work because oil and latex are not compatible, so choose silicone or water-based lube instead. 

4. Best lubricant for masturbation

Choosing the best lube for masturbation depends on what self-pleasure act you enjoy the most. For external play only, Bloomi's Desire Sensual Pleasure Oil is a great option to enhance the sensations over intimate skin. Also, for external use only over intimate skin, Bloomi's Luxe Arousal Oil is a great option because it's formulated with CBD, which improves blood circulation and enhances pleasure.

For vaginal penetration, water-based lube like Bloomi's Smooth is an all-around safest option. It's easy to clean up and won't disturb the vaginal pH levels, which is great for those more sensitive and prone to yeast infections. However, the best lubricant for menopause dryness, if that's something you are experiencing, might be oil-based lube like Bloomi's Delight.

Are you curious to find out the best ways to masturbate or pleasure a penis? Well, you've come to the right place. There is a misconception that penises are often considered to be the "easier" and more straightforward genitalia when compared with the clitoris. But that isn't quite right. 

The penis is a highly sensitive erogenous zone with a total of 4,000 nerve endings. So whether you're interested in solo or partnered playtime, we’re bringing you nine fun and creative ways to pleasure a penis.

How to pleasure a penis: best ways to masturbate or please your partner 

Penis anatomy 101

Before we jump into the "how to" of pleasuring a penis, let's talk about the anatomy first. Learning the parts of the penis is the first step to understanding how different stimulation can bring pleasure. 

• The head: The head of the penis, otherwise called the glans, is the rounded tip of the penis that is highly sensitive. This is the part where all 4,000 nerve ends are, and it feels amazing when stimulated. 

• The shaft: The shaft makes up the majority of the penis, and it is a much less sensitive part of the penis than others. When it comes to stimulation, you might want to apply a little bit more pressure when stroking it up and down. 

• Foreskin: Uncircumcised penises have a foreskin that covers the glans and the frenulum and can be pulled down to reveal them. Foreskin itself can be a source of great pleasure. Even if the penis is not fully erect, stimulating the foreskin with the hands or mouth can feel amazing. 

• Frenulum: The frenulum is the small “V” fold of skin on the underside of the penis between the foreskin and the shaft. It’s also an erogenous zone that likes attention and gentle stimulation. For some people with penises, stimulating only this area alone can trigger orgasms. 

• Scrotum and testicles: At the base of the penis, there are the testicles, oval-shaped organs that rest inside a scrotum that keeps the testicles at the right temperature. This area is often referred to as simply "the balls" and is highly sensitive. 

• Perineum: The area behind the scrotum, and before the anus is known as the perineum. This little area is often forgotten, but it can be a great source of pleasure for people with penises.

The 9 best ways to masturbate or pleasure a penis

Now that you are familiar with the anatomy of the penis, and all the sensitive spots, let's dive into the tips and tricks to bring yourself or your partner mind-blowing pleasure. 

1. Level up with an arousal oil

Our Bloomi Luxe Arousal Oil is formulated with botanical aphrodisiacs to help increase sexual arousal and make sex feel really good.  

For best results, apply 2 to 4 pumps, or your desired amount, to your fingertips and gently massage on penile skin, testicles, inner thighs, and the surrounding area about 10 to 15 minutes before intimate moments.

2. Get wet, wet, wet

There’s no such thing as too much lube. Actually, the more slip, the better! Start with a water-based lubricant like Smooth Water-Based Personal Lubricant. Smooth is formulated for penile and/or vaginal application, intended to moisturize and lubricate, enhance the ease and comfort of intimate activity, and supplement the body's natural lubrication.

3. Mix things up with some vibration

Toys are meant to enhance sexual experiences. Play with different vibration patterns and intensities on your partner’s inner thigh or forearm before you go straight for the penis. Bloomi's Massage is the perfect option to stimulate the penis. 

First of all, it is small and non-intimidating, and comfortably fits in the palm of your hand. Due to its sleek design it is easy to control and stimulate different pleasure points, like the head, frenulum, scrotum, and testicles.

4. Give an erotic massage 

For this massage, grab our fave Bloomi Massage Oil with botanical aphrodisiacs and CBD. Apply a generous amount of oil to your palms and your partner's body. You can do this while sitting on your partner or beside them.

Start the massage with less popular erogenous zones like their shoulders, neck, inner thighs, wrists, and palms. Massage your partner everywhere, but their intimate zones to build tension and anticipation. The teasing is part of the fun and can be very erotic. 

Once you are ready to move on to the next level, place your arms on either side of the penis while the person receiving it is laying on their back. Apply a bit of pressure as you move up and down along the sides of the shaft. Pro-tip: Lean forward and give it kisses or licks throughout.

Get handsy

Using your hands to stimulate your or your partner's penis can be very pleasurable. We recommend always using loads of lube when you get handsy with a penis because the slippery feel is much better than touching dry skin. 

Here are a few of our favorite moves for pleasuring a penis: 

The Gearstick

Rest your hand on the head of the penis, just as you would on the gearstick of a car. Apply your favorite lubricant, and start making circular movements with the palm of your hand. Pro-tip: You can simultaneously use your other hand to gently squeeze the shaft and move in up-and-down motions. 

What the frenulum? 

Remember the super sensitive V-shaped area just underneath the head of the penis? Show it some love with your hands! Use your thumb to massage the spot in various motions – up and down, side to side, and in circles. 

Combine that with stroking the shaft of the penis up and down with your other hand, or gently massaging the scrotum in your palm for combined pleasure. 

Also, tease this area with kisses, licks, or flicks for as long as possible in between massaging it with the thumb. Switching up the sensations can be very exciting and pleasurable. 

It’s all in the head

As mentioned, the head of the penis contains thousands of nerve endings. Circle the head of the penis with your index finger and thumb. The best place is right around where the frenulum is. Tighten the grip a little bit and then twist your hand back and forth.

Your other hand can focus on stroking the shaft of the penis or the scrotum, depending on which the receiving partner prefers more. Play with different movements and, of course, check in with your partner(s) to make sure they’re feeling good.

5. Use your mouth

Oral sex is one of the most intimate activities you can engage in with your partner(s) because it grips all your senses. When performing oral sex on a penis, focus your attention on the head, frenulum, and foreskin (if still intact). Of course, every penis is different and enjoys different sensations, so be sure to check in with the receiver.

As far as techniques go, saliva and lube will be your best friends. Once the penis is well lubricated, run your lips and tongue up and down along the shaft. As you move toward the head of the penis, move your tongue in circular motions clockwise and counter-clockwise.

And we get it, it's normal to stick with the oral sex positions that feel the most comfortable, but you might want to step outside your comfort zone with one of these, too:

• Twisted pleasure: There is one oral sex technique that can be extremely pleasurable for people with penises. Your mouth will be focusing solely on the head of the penis and the frenulum, while you will be using your hands on the shaft. Make sure you have edible lube on hand to help keep things wet if saliva is not enough. 

  With your mouth, suck on the very tip of the penis, while flattening your tongue against the frenulum. You might draw circles if you're comfortable, see what feels the best. Use one hand or both hands to grip the shaft of the penis and twist your wrists as you move up and down. Lastly, once you're comfortable, twist your head to the opposite side of your hand(s) while sucking on the tip. 

• Sixty-nine: An oldie, but a goodie. One partner lays down on their back, and another gets on top as you would during a Missionary. But, instead of being face-to-face, you both face each other's intimate areas. 

  It can be very sexy to pleasure your partner while they pleasure you at the same time. And if 69 is something you have tried before, consider doing it on the side. 

• Pillow prince: This is a pretty safe and comfortable oral sex position that allows the receiver to completely relax and enjoy being pleasured. So, the receiver lays down on their back in the bed. Place some pillows for comfort, if needed. 

  The giving partner kneels or lays down between their legs, and pleasures them with their mouth. Kneeling might be easier if you want to combine mouth and hand stimulation, as it allows for more space to move around.

• Kinging: Kinging or better known as queening in the BDSM world is the act of face sitting during oral sex. The giving partner lays down on their back on a comfortable surface. You can add pillows under the head and neck for support. 

  The receiving partner straddles their partner's head and places the penis in their mouth. The receiving partner can kneel or squat, depending on what is more comfortable. You can also add pillows under your knees to prevent knee pain and give the giving partner more space to breathe. 

• Deep pleasure: This is one of the best oral sex positions for a deep throat. The giving partner lays down on their back, at the very edge of the bed or a sofa so their head dangles off the edge. The receiving partner gets on their knees and thrusts the penis inside their partner's mouth. 

• In front of the mirror: Adding an element of voyeurism and exhibitionism into your sexual routines can be exhilarating. And the good news is that you don't need to leave your home to do that.

  A receiving partner sits in front of the mirror. It's best if the mirror is full-length. The giving partner kneels in front of them, and pleasures their partner with their mouth and hands. 

6. Add a c-ring

Changing things up adds novelty to every sexual experience. C-rings are a fun option because they can add extra sensations, feel-good pressure, and even make an erection firmer. Simply place the ring gently at the base of a flaccid penis and have fun with any of the activities you’d usually do. C-ring is great for intercourse, blowjobs, and handjobs. 

One important thing to remember is to not keep the c-ring on for longer than 20 minutes at a time. Restricting the blood flow for too long can be risky, so take breaks if you have longer pleasure sessions. 

7. Butt play is fun, too

Anal stimulation can enhance orgasms and overall pleasure for people with penises. Whether with fingers, an anal plug, or a dildo, exploring different sensations solo or with a partner(s) will unlock stronger, more intense orgasms. 

If your partner is hesitant, we recommend starting slow and first stimulating the anus from the outside. Apply lube and then play around with different strokes and pressures. If you're into it, consider using your tongue to stimulate your partner's anus and see if that feels good.

Once your partner is warmed up, you can insert one finger (make sure it's lubed up well!). If they are very into it and feel good, it might be a good idea to try a sex toy. Bloomi's Indulge is the perfect tool for that.

8. Introduce powerplay 

Introducing a little bit of powerplay into partnered play can be very exciting. And it's super easy to do, even for beginners. The giving partner can be in control, while the receiving partner is the one surrendering control. 

A beginner-friendly way to incorporate powerplay is ordering the receiving partner to not touch you while you give them a blowjob or a handjob. You can also reverse the roles where the receiver is the one in control, telling the giving partner exactly how they want to be pleasured. 

9. Mutual pleasure

Mutual masturbation can be extremely fun and sexy. It is visually arousing, and seeing you touch yourself in front of your partner can be a huge turn-on for them. 

Also, mutual masturbation is a fantastic way to show each other how you like to be touched, and what feels the best. It's a great way to communicate your sexual preferences if talking about it is difficult, or if you're too shy.