Aftercare (BDSM)

While aftercare often includes physical closeness, such as hugging, kissing, hair-stroking, or cuddling, it can also involve verbal affirmations, gratitude, or even "vanilla" sexual activities like fellatio.

Dominant participants may require equal or greater levels of support depending on the intensity of the scene, their experience, and personal needs.

In long-distance BDSM relationships, aftercare can include the exchange of emotionally significant items to provide reassurance and maintain connection.

For instance, research published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine[3] found that 46% of women and 41% of men polled reported feeling depressed after sex at least once in their lives.

These practices not only promote emotional recovery but also help reinforce trust through post-scene discussions, allowing partners to address what worked and what didn't.

Addressing Minor Injuries: For those engaging in more extreme forms of BDSM, such as blood or knife play, aftercare may involve disinfecting and patching up wounds to ensure safety and well-being.