Loving each other to the point of taking your breath away. This could be the definition of a new sexual trend which seems to be gaining momentum, particularly among young couples. Because yes, choking, or the simulation of strangulation (also called erotic asphyxia), is now part of the sexual practices that punctuate the sexuality of young people. And that’s a problem.
Choking, strangling your partner for more pleasure
What exactly is choking? It is therefore a practice which consists of exerting pressure on the neck of one’s partner during sexual intercourse. One partner thus limits the other’s breathing or blood circulation (or both) to increase adrenaline, the feeling of urgency or excitement. According to a study carried out in Australia reported by the media The Conversationaround 50% of sexually active young people have already used it under the covers.
A sexual practice that hides a mortal danger
However, strangulation is not just a role play to promote arousal. The act, already present in BDSM relationships (bondage, domination, sadomasochism), carries risks, ranging from bruising and vomiting, to brain damage or even death. It is even the main cause of death in these relationships.
The real risk is that there is no safe way to perform strangulation. According to another study mentioned by the magazine, young people who practice it have no awareness of the danger, as long as the act is consensual and, according to them, “measured”. But they do not know how to estimate what is low, dangerous or high pressure, and do not seem to realize that taking alcohol or substances can also skew the desired pressure.
“However, although not all pressure on the neck is fatal, research shows that even relatively low pressure can cause death from strangulation.” evokes the magazine.
Can consent apply when you are being strangled?
The participants in this latest study also hide behind a notion of consent, certainly essential, to engage in this practice.
“If the act takes place between two consenting adults who have discussed it beforehand and who have a safety plan in place, I see no problem with it,” testifies a participant.
Consent is thus considered a process that can be withdrawn at any time. However, this facade consent can be blurred. Research has shown that a person who is being strangled may not be able to withdraw consent through gestures or words.
Other participants, however, recognized the somewhat “forced” nature inherent to the practice. “Some interviewees – usually women, but not always – indicated that they were driven to perform strangulation (both to be strangled and to strangle their partners).”
A practice learned in porn
Other studies carried out in the United States in particular confirm this poor understanding of the potential dangers of sexual strangulation. The conversation makes the link with the fact that, very often, sexual strangulation is learned through pornography, or social networks, the information of which leaves something to be desired.
Given the trend that is spreading and transmitted via networks, addressing it more in risky sexual practices is now a priority.