Good Sex with Emily Jamea: The Rise of Erotic Asphyxiation

Emily Jamea, Ph.D., is a sex therapist, author and podcast host. You can find her here each month to share her latest thoughts about sex.

Lately, it seems like everyone’s more comfortable talking about their sexual preferences. And with this openness — does their freak match your freak? — sexual expression has evolved, with preferences like rough sex and erotic asphyxiation getting more attention and being talked about in mainstream media and personal relationships.

These practices, while not new, have piqued people’s curiosity, often fueled by what they see and hear in pop culture.

However, with this increase in popularity and curiosity, comes a complex interplay of empowerment, risk and controversy that warrants a close look and careful discussion.

Understanding erotic asphyxiation

Erotic asphyxiation involves deliberately restricting oxygen to the brain during sexual activity to enhance the intensity of your orgasm. This practice is commonly known as breath play or choking. Activities like these, when consensual, are seen by some as a way to explore power dynamics, heighten pleasure or satisfy certain kinks or fetishes.

Erotic asphyxiation is rooted in BDSM (bondage, discipline, dominance, submission, sadism and masochism) practices, where participants engage in activities that explore power, control and sometimes pain, often within pre-negotiated boundaries and with clear communication.

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