In parts of sub-Saharan Africa, an unusual and controversial intimate ritual continues to exist quietly in certain communities. Known as “vaginal drying” or “dry sex,” the practice involves women using various substances or techniques to reduce vaginal lubrication before intercourse. While it might…

Data Story: How Gen Z Sees Intimacy Differently A New Chapter in Connection For generations, intimacy has often been framed in binary terms: romance or friendship, physical closeness or emotional distance. But Gen Z—the cohort born roughly between 1997 and 2012—appears to be reframing the…

Understanding Cultural Attitudes Toward Closeness and Connection When people talk about intimacy, the word often conjures ideas of romance, sex, or emotional closeness. Yet, intimacy is shaped not only by individual experiences but also by cultural expectations. The ways people in the West and…

Confidence isn’t a straight line. For many women, it comes in waves, shifting with life stages, personal setbacks, and quiet victories that often go unnoticed by the outside world. In this case study series, women—sharing anonymously—open up about how they’ve navigated their own relationships with…

For centuries, women’s health has been surrounded by a mix of science, folklore, and cultural beliefs. While medicine has advanced in understanding reproductive health, myths about vaginal health continue to circulate in daily conversation, online forums, and even among well-meaning friends. Some…

Talking about sex with a partner isn’t always easy. For some couples, conversations about intimacy flow naturally; for others, it feels like a topic they tiptoe around. Yet open discussions about sexual needs, boundaries, and preferences can strengthen trust, improve connection, and reduce…

In the vast and endlessly inventive world of human sexuality, curiosity often pushes boundaries in surprising directions. From everyday household items doubling as improvised pleasure tools to the reimagining of ancient practices in modern contexts, people have always found creative ways to explore…

Healing after trauma can feel unpredictable. For many, the body holds tension, memories, or emotions that seem difficult to release. Re-establishing a sense of comfort within your own skin doesn’t happen overnight, but small, steady practices can help. Mindfulness—paying attention to the present…

10 Daily Habits That Improve Relationship Communication In any partnership, clear and open dialogue forms the foundation for trust and understanding. Yet, with busy schedules and everyday stresses, it's easy for conversations to slip into routine or misunderstandings. The good news is that…