Hands up if you’ve gathered most of your sex education from watching porn. Initially, there might seem to be no harm in observing a couple (or group) engaging in sexual activities on screen—as long as it caters to everyone’s visual and sensual desires. But what you might not have realised is that what’s depicted in porn, for years, has been perceived as reality, an undeniable truth.
Now, what if I told you that many of the scenes that get us all worked up aren’t necessarily authentic? From mundane details to the symbolism behind certain actions and scenarios, most of what we see is simply make-believe. Here are some misconceptions that the porn industry has fed us—and we bought into.
- Fake ejaculation: The male climax is often portrayed as the highlight of porn. But more often than not, that semen you see is fake. Toothpaste mixed with lubricant is a common trick, released discreetly by a small device hidden in the actor’s hand. So, don’t be disheartened if your ejaculation doesn’t match what you’ve seen on screen.
- Misleading squirting: Not everything you witness in the squirting category is genuine. Most of the time, it’s just urine. The medical community states that female ejaculation, as portrayed in porn, is a rare occurrence, not experienced by all women during orgasm.
- Unrealistic positions: While exploring new sexual positions is encouraged, don’t expect to be changing positions every couple of minutes. The reality is far from the constant acrobatics depicted in porn. Take your time to learn gradually, without pressure.
- Forced moans: Moaning during sex is natural and exciting, but in porn, those moans often serve a performative purpose rather than indicating genuine pleasure. So, don’t feel pressured to imitate what you’ve seen.
- Brief sex sessions: Contrary to what porn might suggest, marathon sex sessions aren’t the norm. Research shows that the average duration of sex is around 5 to 24 minutes. Quickies can be just as satisfying.
- Gentle sex is okay: Frantic, intense penetration isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Gentle, slow-paced sex can be equally enjoyable.
- Foreplay is essential: Rushing into penetration is unlikely. Arousal begins in the mind and requires mood, caresses, and intimacy. Not all sex involves penetration, and that’s perfectly fine—pleasure is what matters most.
- Feminist porn is rare: Despite the rise of feminist porn, which prioritises women’s pleasure, it remains the exception rather than the rule. Women enjoy sex and deserve pleasure, just like anyone else.
- Sex during menstruation: Porn often avoids depicting sex during menstruation, considering it taboo. However, it’s perfectly normal and can even be more pleasurable for some. It acts as a natural lubricant and may alleviate menstrual cramps.
- Diverse representation: Lesbians, trans women and transvestites and mature women who are mothers are the protagonists of three of the most famous pornographic categories: “lesbians”, “transgender” and “MILFPorn often categorises women into narrow roles, but in reality, women of all backgrounds have the right to enjoy fulfilling sex lives without being reduced to mere fetishes.
Remember, porn is entertainment, not education. It’s essential to distinguish between fantasy and reality with sexual experiences.
This article was syndicated from Marie Claire Brazil
Translated and adapted by Praise Vandeh, Marie Claire Nigeria Content Writer
