What are your Kinks & Fetishes?

Massage has many purposes and uses from medical to relaxation. It's a technique that has been used throughout the ages to make people feel better. Tantric massage is incredibly sensual and is used to make the whole body feel good. Tantric massage includes yoni (vulva) and Lingam (penis) massage for sexual pleasure but without a focus on orgasms. There is a connection in tantra between the giver and the receiver, which is very intimate. It is a sexual practice that can be given with a great level of expertise but is something you can do without any previous experience at all. Want to spoil a partner or feel you need some pampering? Tantric massage could be just the thing you need.

Warm and intimate, cuddles really do make everything better. They're also great before or after sex or even during. They show how much you want to be with the other person and enjoy being so close to them. Many face to face sex positions incorporate cuddling as it offers lots of skin on skin touching, bringing a greater intimacy to love making. Cuddles aren't just all about soppy romance either. They are a wonderful way to get close to your partner, show intimacy and cuddles that turn into sex are definitely the best ones ever!

Hair pulling is one of those actions that can be highly irritating. Anyone who accidentally traps a strand of hair in a bobble and pulls will know how unpleasant it can be. However, during the heat of the moment it can be extremely sexy. An act that can show both dominance and passion, hair pulling can work both ways, Dominant and submissives can both enjoy it as part of primal, sexual play after all it’s called rough and tumble for a reason, right? Tugging and pulling on hair is all fun and games but make sure it’s all completely consensual.

Some think multiple orgasms are a myth - but you can take it from us that they most certainly are not! You'll probably need to work on varying intensity and overcoming sensitivity to make them happen, but most AFAB (assigned female at birth) people can get there with a little practice. Start by focusing on what works best for you already, and see how you feel about picking straight back up after you've climaxed. You might like to experiment with edging as part of the process; bringing yourself (or asking a partner to bring you) right to the edge of your tolerance and then backing off before you actually orgasm can help you learn how to have multiples, and even if it doesn't it's likely to be a great deal of fun.

Some vagina owners can ejaculate when they come. Just like male ejaculation it can vary in amount, power and consistency but unlike male ejaculate, the liquid originates from the skene’s glands that surround the urethra and of course, it doesn’t contain sperm. Many people don’t believe female ejaculation is a thing, but in studies between 10-54% of women say they have experienced it. It’s seen by some as controversial sexual act and has been banned from porn by the BBFC which has been strongly protested. After all it’s a natural sexual reaction for some people, so if you squirt enjoy it, it’s perfectly normal!

Masturbation is often seen as a solo activity, but it can be enjoyed with a partner and when it is, it’s known as mutual masturbation. It can involve two people masturbating individually but watching each other, this is fantastic for an exhibitionist or voyeuristic thrill. Mutual masturbation can also involve people masturbating each other and letting their fingers do the talking…well, wanking really. Mutual masturbation is at least double the fun and can be a wonderful way to play, finding out what turns your partner on by watching how they please themselves and showing off what gets you off too!

Ding ding, going down! Cunnilingus is the technical term for giving oral sex to a woman or any person with a vulva in fact. Oral sex is not talking about sex, no, it’s using your mouth to turn the other person on by licking, sucking and even biting. It’s not dirty talk, though you can combine the two as long as you don’t talk with your mouthful. It’s a sex act that doesn’t have to include penetration, which is great for anyone who isn’t a fan of PIV sex or just wants to change things up. It’s very intimate and some people absolutely love it where other people find it a complete turn off. If the idea of going down gets you excited, add cunnilingus to your fetish list on feitsh.com then look for others who love it too.

There are so many different names for a blow job, some of which are used for specific actions. Deep throating is when a person takes the whole length of an erect cock into their mouth as they give a blow job. It can also be called face fucking. This is quite a popular theme in BDSM porn because it shows the control of the Dom, through command or hands holding the sub in place as well as the submission of the bottom, doing all they can to give their partner pleasure. It can get messy too and add in elements of degradation and humiliation. Fun!

Anonymous sex is where both parties know very little about each other. They meet up, have sex, then go their separate ways never to contact each other again. Looking for this kind of sex is often called cruising. It has become much easier to find someone for anonymous sex as the internet has become so much a part of everyday life. There are several sites and apps that make it much easier to find people to hook up with for anonymous sex. Often assumed to be something only gay men are interested, anonymous sex is much more universal, with fans of all sexes enjoying no strings sexual encounters

There’s so much you can do in virtual reality worlds these days as the technology has really come on. This includes the advent of VR sex. You get transported into a sexy scene with just the use of a VR headset and some VR compatible porn. You can experience being part of the hot action instead of being stuck watching 2D porn you can experience it as if you’re really there. Whatever really turns you on, you can enjoy it up close and personal just by using a headset and well, your own hand. A fun, safe way to experience new kinks and fetishes too.

People who have vaginas will have heard of (and maybe found) their G-spot. It's an area inside the vagina that when stimulated, can bring the person to orgasm. They are different from clitoral orgasms and often said to be more intense or prolonged. In penis owners, there is something similar which is known as the P-spot. The prostate is located in the rectum and can provide intense, dry orgasms without ejaculation when stimulated. Often these orgasms can occur multiple times and are said to be very strong. The P-spot can be manipulated manually, with toys or during anal sex, so if you want a different kind of orgasm, give it a go!

Sex comes in many forms and many places - but of course the classic location is the bedroom. It can be easy to assume that if most of your sex takes place there you've got a little stuck in your ways - but honestly, when you think about it, a lot of the places we're told are great choices for getting down are massively overrated. Beds are comfortable, spacious, private and cosy, not to mention often come with plenty of handy ways to change up your angle or get yourself tied down! Adventurous escapades are great, of course, but let's not forget the simple pleasure of getting an early night with the right partner.

Kissing seems like a big deal to us when we're teenagers, but as we grow older, it can start to lose a little of its mystique. It's a great shame because it's a wonderful way to build intimacy between partners, and without it, sex can start to feel a little impersonal. In a fetish context, there are plenty of ways to make kissing a part of your dynamic. Kissing someone who is tied up can add to the sensual feeling of helplessness, for example, while kissing a blindfolded person all over their body will keep them wanting more and make them unsure what to expect. It can also form an important part of aftercare, helping you to reconnect with your partner on a cosier level after an encounter that may have been quite emotionally intense.

Human beings thrive on touch, and an erotic massage is a great way to make use of that. For dominant partners, it can be a way to pamper and spoil your sub - as a reward for good behaviour, perhaps, or as a way of comforting and looking after them when they've had a hard day. For submissives, it can be an act of devotion and adoring service to your dominant. Either way, it's intimate and sexy - and it can be a wonderful way to lead into something a little more mutual! Massage can also form a valuable part of aftercare, particularly if one partner has maintained a stressful or difficult position for any length of time.

Shower sex can be a lot of fun. It's sexy, sure, but it's also intimate; there's something lovely about being naked and relaxed with someone in such an everyday way. It's a great way to bond with someone whether you're getting down and dirty as you clean yourselves or not. If you're the lucky owner of one, bathtub sex might be a slightly more comfortable option as you can lay down. The shower can also be a great place to experiment with some of the messier fetishes you might have considered. It's the best venue for first-timers to try watersports, for example, and it's a great way to make wax play safer and easier to clean up.

If you love summer not only for the sunshine and long days, but for the prevalence of crop tops and bikinis - then you might just have a belly button fetish. It’s more than a simple appreciation for the dip or bump in the centre of the stomach where the umbilical cord was attached until removed at birth. Belly buttons are an erogenous zone, often under appreciated and missed out, but just looking at them gets some people going. If you go wild for belly buttons, join other belly button lovers here and share your appreciation with others who get the sexual appeal of a cute belly button.

Breast feeding is most usually connected with child birth and mother’s feeding their new borns. However, breast feeding can be indulged in by consenting adults for sexual excitement and bonding purposes. Lactation fetish can refer to a person who wants to suckle breast milk as well as someone who likes to do the breast feeding. Most commonly it’s men who have the desire to breastfeed but it can appeal to people of all genders too. As there isn’t necessarily a need for a person to be lactating for lactation play to happen, it is a fetish anyone can indulge in.

Tickling is something people tend to either love or hate. If you get turned on by tickling well then you might just have a tickle fetish. If you’re turned on by tickling someone else, then you might have a tickle fetish. Sexual arousal from tickling is often connected to Dominance and submission. When you give in to someone tickling you, you lose all control. And we all know that BDSM is all about who is in control and who is losing it. BDSM isn’t all dark, serious and brooding, it can be fun and joyful too and tickle torture is all about finding the fun in fetish.

Sneezes can mean many different things. You could have an allergy; you might be coming down with a cold or a bit of dust has tickled your nose. For some people with a sneeze fetish, sneezes mean arousal. From being turned on by another person sneezing to finding your own sneezes to be totally orgasmic, if you have a sneeze fetish, you’re not going to be afraid of catching a cold and you’ll be happy to share round the germs with others. Hay fever season is the best time of year for a person who loves a sneeze. Share your sneeze fetish stories on the forums at fetish.com to find other kinksters like you.

Watersports in general are a popular fetish but generally they revolve around people letting their pee go. Pee desperation is exactly the opposite. It’s all about being made to not use the toilet. We’ve all been there, desperate to go but unable to for varied reasons. Maybe someone is in there already, you’ve been caught short out and about without a bathroom nearby or you’re trying to find a polite way to excuse yourself from a long conversation so you can go. It’s an overwhelming desire that takes leg crossing, body jigging and some great strength of mind to achieve. If this idea sexually arouses you, then you might just have a pee desperation fetish.

Let's face it, folks: breasts are pretty great. Almost everyone who is sexually attracted to women has a fondness for them, and plenty of other people besides can enjoy looking at them or playing with them. For those of us who have our own they're often a big part of the way we dress and the way we dress up, and people who think of their breasts as being one of their best physical features can have a lot of fun with dresses, corsets and plunge bras designed to show them off. There's more than one way of getting your breasts involved in your fetish life, too. If you have a breast fetish, breast worship is a common practice amongst people who enjoy submitting to women, while those who get off on dominating them might want to indulge in a little tit torture or breast bondage. For most people they're a major erogenous zone, making them a great place to bite, suck, spank and squeeze. Just make sure you have the full informed consent of your partner before you get down to anything!

Everyone has veins, but not everyone has a vein fetish. People who are very attracted to visible veins may have this fetish. Some of the most common vein fetishes include visible veins in a man’s hands and arms, veins showing on breasts and cock veins. Vein fetish is the attraction to seeing veins visible under a person’s skin. This particular fetish can connect with medical fetishes, for example, wanting to tap veins to find if they’re suitable for taking blood. Mostly though, vein fetish is all about the look and feel of veins usually on another person’s body. Some vein fetishes especially love varicose veins; others just prefer natural veins that show through the skin. Veins that create ridges above the level of the skin is something that is particularly attractive for people with a vein fetish.

Rimming is the term for licking around the anus. It’s something that has close associations to gay sex but people of all genders and sexualities can indulge in rimming. It’s all about giving, and can be a really fun way to worship a really sexy butt. It can be performed on its own, as part of oral sex or other sexual acts and needs no specialist gear but it is best to be squeaky clean to start with so that everyone is relaxed and ready to go. It might be a great way to get dirty but you don’t want real dirt, right?

Penises come in all shapes and sizes, but some are classed as being 'micropenises' - meaning that they're one inch or less in length when fully erect, though some people with this condition cannot achieve erection at all. It's relatively rare and has many causes, but those affected generally find the psychological effect to be the most serious. The good news is that it needn't unduly dictate someone's sex life; there are plenty of things you can do with a partner no matter what you're able or comfortable to do with your penis, some with a micropenis enjoy humiliation as a fetish. The right person will be someone who is understanding and accepting and very willing to explore alternatives that help you both.

If your kink involves aspects of humiliation and degradation, spitting can be the perfect addition to that kind of dynamic. There's something about being spat on that really enhances the feelings of submission for a lot of people. As with all things, however, there are a few safety concerns to bear in mind--the most important of which is to make sure you don't get your saliva in your partners' eyes. It stings badly, can cause infections and leaves a lingering 'bloodshot' look nobody enjoys, so aim carefully! It's also extremely important to negotiate this with a partner before you begin, as many people really won't enjoy this kind of play.

The nipples are an erogenous zone for people with all kinds of bodies, and many find that they're uniquely sensitive to stimulation. People with breasts tend to find that their nipples are more sensitive than those of people without, but this is by no means a reliable or universal guideline. Pleasure, pain and even bondage can all use the nipples; they're a great site for pinwheels, clamps, pegs, wax, caressing, licking, stroking, touching, kissing, biting and more. Dominant types often enjoy nipple stimulation just as much as their submissive counterparts, though for obvious reasons they're less likely to be interested in the more painful and intense end of the spectrum. Try some things out and don't be afraid to experiment!

Sensation comes in many forms, and for many people, there's something uniquely sensual about the feeling of licking or being licked. Obvious choices are of course the main erogenous zones - nipples, genitals and earlobes are all popular options - but there are ways to include the tongue in the fun with almost any body part. Licking someone's skin and gently blowing over it can be surprisingly intense, and there's something blissfully intimate about the entire process. For the foot fetishists out there, feet licking is an exciting experience for both partners, and armpit licking can be applied to your kinky BDSM play.

It's good to get messy. Especially wet and messy. Do you love jumping in puddles and playing with your food? Then sploshing is just the fetish for you. A fetish for the sensation of different substances on the skin, sploshing is also known as Wet and Messy Play. It can involve foods, gunge, mud, anything that is slick on the skin. It can be a way to rebel, to reject being a responsible adult for a while, and it can simply be a way to enjoy unusual sensations on your skin. You need to be ready for the cleanup, it's not called wet and messy for no reason!

You might not know it, but you could be a piquerist or into piquerism because it's an unusual term for something that is a staple in the BDSM community. That wasn't meant to be a pun, but as piquerism is the sexual interest in piercing another person's skin, it works as one! It's a catch-all term for BDSM play where something penetrates the skin. Needles, staples, pins, knives and scalpels all count. If you've played with any of this, you've indulged in a little piquerism already! A standard of edge play, piquerism crosses into realms of blood play and medical play too. Piquerism can be adapted for all kinds of scenes and situations.

Well-manicured nails have become part of life for many people. They can be painted prettily in different colours, with varying patterns for parties, shaped and sculpted to keep them looking good for work and play. People spend hours making their nails look good. But, some people really love nails and get a sexual thrill from looking at them or feeling them in use. Looking after or painting someone else's nails is thrilling for someone with a nail fetish. It's not just about how they look; it's how they scratch too, which is fabulous fun for kinky playtime. All you need are your fingers and a willing partner or two or more!

Designed to help pregnant women have more comfortable sex; sex stools have since been adopted by all kinds of people to enjoy accessible sex. A great piece of kit to add variety to your sex life, a sex stool can be used to take the weight off bad backs and dodgy knees and make sex more accessible for those with disabilities. They can be used for kinky purposes, too. It could make the perfect queening stool, for example. And if you keep your sub restrained, you can keep the goodies (you) just out of reach. Tantalizingly sexy.

It might not be quite the same magic wand that Glinda the Good Witch uses, but wand massagers can bring some out of this world amazing orgasms that'll make you feel like you're a miracle-making good witch yourself! Wand massagers were created as a way to ease aching muscles, but everyone knows their vibrations lead to the most amazing orgasms, especially for people with vulvas. Still, there are ways for penis owners to enjoy them too! Wand massagers now are being made purely for masturbation, so it's easy to find the one best for you.

Prostate massagers were originally a medical invention for the relief of many prostate problems, and they have been developed and adapted to give men strong internal orgasms by stimulating the prostate. Known as P-spot or Male G-spot these orgasms are incredibly intense and something many men enjoy. It is difficult to reach the spot with a finger, yours or even a partner’s and that is where a prostate massager comes in. With lots of lube and maybe a bit of practice, using a prostate massager to gently stimulate the prostate can produce intense orgasms that nothing else can replicate.

Patented in 1998 as a ‘device for discreet sperm collection’ the fleshlight has quickly become a favourite masturbation aid for men. It looks similar to a flashlight (hence the name) from the outside and so can be stored discreetly without much effort. Inside there is a textured, medical grade silicone shaped as either a vulva, anus or mouth. Easy to use, this masturbation tool simulates sex and carries none of the risks that sex actually does. It is a step up from masturbating with just a hand and gives variety to a much enjoyed leisure activity that, let’s face it, everyone likes to indulge in!

Penis pumps were invented in the early 1900s to treat erectile dysfunction, the clitoral pump derives from this device. It is a sex toy used to encourage blood flow to the clitoris and/or the labia which therefore heightens sexual pleasure. In kink, a clit pump can be used by a Dominant on a restrained submissive to heighten sensation and help with orgasm torture. It is often used in conjunction with a nipple pump. It is believed that with regular use a clit pump can help women who experience trouble orgasming to reach climax as it promotes blood flow to the genitals.

The Sybian is one of the most famous and best known sex machines in the world. They're expensive - but they're highly customisable, they have plenty of different attachments and thousands of people all over the world absolutely swear by them. If you get a chance to try one out, it's well worth it. They're not the only kind of fucking machine, of course! Fucking machines generally come in two main types; ones you straddle over and ride, like the Sybian, and ones with a piston-like fucking action. The latter are popular additions to many porn films, especially those focusing on a certain type of female submission.

Sex swings are designed to maximise the sexual experience. One person is suspended in the swing and the other is then in control of all the action. There are different kinds of slings, some attach to the back of the door, others have their own frame and some need to be attached to the ceiling. As well as where they hang, the type of swing varies a lot too. You can get ones that are like a hammock and others that have leg and wrist supports as well as somewhere to rest your bum. So no matter what you want to do in it, there is a sex swing out there perfect for you.

This masturbation aid is made to create an experience that feels like it’s more than just you on your own enjoying the sexy times. The original sex dolls were invented by Dutch sailors in the 17th century. They were made of old clothes. In Japan they are sometimes still referred to as Dutch wives because of this. These sex toys have been around for a really long time! There a many different kinds of sex doll now, with oral, vaginal and/or anal openings and some have a realistic penis. They are a highly customisable item, so you can pick one that really works for your taste.

Vibrators and other vibrating sex toys come in many shapes and sizes, but many fans of the love egg swear by their particular benefits. They're curved in a way that makes them an excellent choice for clitoral stimulation, and they're small enough to be versatile - meaning they can be worked into a couple's sex life as well as enhancing masturbation and other solo play. If you've never tried a love egg, they're well worth a shot. Basic models also tend to be inexpensive, making them an affordable way to introduce yourself to battery-powered sex toys and a new kind of clitoral stimulation.

The nipples are a sensitive and erogenous zone, and nipple clamps are a standard part of many BDSM toy boxes. They can heighten sensations, add a whole new dimension to bondage and provide just the right amount of pain - not to mention they have a kinky look to them that helps to symbolise submission for many people. The feeling can be fantastic, though it does take a little getting used to. As a rule of thumb, they'll hurt more when you first put them on, and the pain then reduces over a few minutes till you can barely feel them. Don't let this make you overconfident, however, as the most intense pain of all is when you take them off!

There are plenty of different ways to use a cock ring. Some people enjoy using them as part of bondage or orgasm control; a tight ring applied before the cock is erect can provide some fascinating sensations once it's hard, though it's important to be careful not to use one that's too tight. Others use them more as a method of introducing something else for their partner - you can get pleasure rings that come with attachments designed to penetrate a partner's anus or stimulate their clitoris. Most, though, are simply about heightening the wearer's pleasure; they come in varying widths and thicknesses, and many of them vibrate. Penis rings can also help many people to attain and maintain an erection if that's something they can have some trouble with.

Anyone with a vagina should consider investing in a set of Ben Wa balls. They're amazing: they feel great, they're good for your sexual health, they can enhance sexual pleasure, and continued use can even result in better orgasms. It's worth indulging in a little experimentation to see what works best for you. Generally speaking, smaller and heavier love balls will be harder to keep inside than larger lighter ones--start with an easy set and work up as your pelvic tone improves. It's also important to remember never to use vaginal Ben Wa balls anally; buy an ass-safe set and don't take the risk.

The concept behind anal beads is simple: they're generally inserted during foreplay and pulled out toward the end of sex, often trying to coincide with the moment of climax. A lot of people find using anal bead intensely pleasurable, and it can seriously heighten the sensations involved. As with all anal play, it's important to use plenty of lubricants and be extremely careful only to employ toys that were specifically designed for anal use. People of all genders and sexualities often enjoy playing with anal beads, but they can be especially great for anyone with a prostate - even if you're a little dubious, it's well worth trying them out once.

Strap-on is a shortened form for strap-on dildo and is a kind of sex toy that is useable by all genders and sexualities. There are many different types off strap-ons but they all are essentially a harness that holds the dildo onto someone (or something) and either a built in dildo or a space to place a dildo for sexual play. They can be used for all kinds of play but are popularly used for pegging (where a woman gives anal sex to a man) as men can have very strong orgasms when their prostate is stimulated. Strap-ons can also be used between female couples, by transgender people and men

Sometimes known as butt plugs, anal plugs are toys especially made to be inserted into the anus. With a curved body and a pointed tip, anal plugs have a wide, flared base so the toy won’t be sucked inside the anal passage. They are available in all different sizes, so you can start out small and move on to bigger plugs if you so desire. Anal plugs come in all different colours, some have jewels or designs in the base, others vibrate or even spread once inserted. Whatever your level or desire, there is an anal plug out there for you.

Castration play is not for everyone and definitely sits at the more extreme end of the fetish scale! It might only be 'play' within a BDSM context, but it involves plenty of risk for the person whose testicles are being restricted. It may be that you want to take your pony play to a whole new level or perhaps you're just a slave who wants to concentrate on nothing but your Dominant's pleasure and to do so you want to remove your libido. Castration play is all about intense fantasies and extreme pain.

A predicament leaves you with hard choices. No matter what you do, it's going to be painful. That's the heart of all predicament bondage. It puts the bottom or submissive/s in the scene in positions where to get relief from one pain; they have to submit to another. They may even have to choose to inflict pain on someone else to get relief for themselves. It's an intense form of power exchange which takes bondage from just restraint into areas of sadism and mind-fuckery. Sadists and masochist, Dominants and submissives as well as riggers and their bunnies find a lot of fun in this particular edge play activity.

BDSM, in general, is seen as being extreme in comparison to vanilla sex, but there are a variety of different kinds of play within BDSM. Those of an edgier nature are grouped as edgeplay. Many activities come under this particular umbrella term, and everyone will have their own opinions of what is edgeplay. From knife play to abandonment play, breath play to mind control, barebacking to predicament bondage as well as many, many more. There are lots of ways to play on the edge, and everyone has their boundaries. Do you enjoy playing on the edge?

Everyone enjoys a bit of the hot stuff, right? Be that steamy sex or a spicy curry, but fire play takes this love to a whole other level. We were taught from a young age not to mess around with matches, and we were taught to respect fire and rightfully so. A lot of kinks and fetishes develop from a fascination with things we're not allowed to do when we're young, and that could explain why people love fire play. Flames are usually not to be touched, but fire play encourages you to get up close and personal with fire. Does playing with fire, quite literally, get you hot under the collar?

Knives have a unique appeal. There are many types for all kinds of jobs; there are new, shiny sharp ones and old, worn, patinated ones. Wide-bladed, thin-bladed and all of them can be sexy if you're into knife play. Knives are popular within the BDSM community, and used for all kinds of purposes, like removing wax after wax play for example, but they can be used simply for fear play too. Knife play is a varied kink that encompasses all kinds of fun you can have with assorted blades from blunt to sharp. You're the one in control, well, if you're holding the knife that is.

There are a few different kinks that often incorporate trampling. People into feedism often enjoy being squashed, trampled or sat on by much larger partners, for example, though the more common iteration of the fetish involves a masochist who is into femme dommes and enjoys the idea of being walked over by someone who has taken control - often while they're wearing spike heels. If you'd like to experiment with this it's important to bear in mind that professionals know exactly how to trample safely, and that even the most hardcore of pros usually aren't actually putting their entire weight on their 'victim's' back. Make sure you do your research and always play safely!

Electro sex stimulation - more commonly referred to as simply 'electrosex' - refers to the use of any sex toys or kink implements that have an electrical current.The most common electrosex toy is probably the violet wand, though there are plenty of others. The one thing all electrosex toys tend to have in common is that they provide a uniquely stimulating sensation: nothing feels like them, and there's no other way to get that 'buzz'. Many of these toys are safe to use in many ways and on many parts of the body, though you must of course always read the instructions thoroughly before you begin!

Genitorture is an aspect of pain play that focuses on the genitals. CBT - or 'cock and ball torture' - is probably the most widely discussed form of genital torture, but any and all genital configurations can be tortured. Popular options include zippers made from clothes pegs and string, clamps and clips, spanking and beatings or the use of candlewax. Safety is of course doubly important in this particular area. Genitals are delicate things, and need a little extra TLC. You can play safely by discussing boundaries in advance even more than usual, paying extra attention to the submissive's pain threshold. Make it clear that communication via a safeword is often expected in a scenario like this rather than some super serious worst-case-scenario.

For some, it's important to find ways to represent their social and emotional relationships as an inherent part of their physical form. This can be a key part in a BDSM dynamic, and for a certain kind of submissive - usually one who is highly masochistic - there's an irresistible appeal to being branded. Branding a human is much like branding an animal: a piece of sterilised metal is held in a fire till it's glowing hot, and then placed quickly onto the skin to leave a permanent scar. Many of these scars are intricate and beautiful, just like tattoos. Our one word of caution is this: don't take branding lightly, and only ever experiment with it in the company of someone who has training, experience and preferably some kind of qualification. It can be highly dangerous, and it isn't something to go into without forethought and planning. Image: Michael Hemmingsson. Flickr Creative Commons license.

Many people find that the sensation of having their ass or vagina completely filled and stretched out is a fantastic one. Fisting is pretty much what it sounds like: getting your entire hand inside someone and fucking them with it as long as they can handle. It does take practice, however, and you should be extremely careful not to hurt or damage your partner as you figure things out. Time, patience and lubricant are all essential, as is a relaxed partner who feels comfortable and is massively turned on. Many people find that having an orgasm before playing around with fisting makes things a little more straightforward, making that the perfect time to start finding out if it's for you.

Double penetration - when someone is being simultaneously penetrated in both the anus and the vagina - is an experience like no other, and can be as bonding for the two penetrators as it is for the person in the middle. It's intense, head-spinning and deeply headspace-inducing; it fits in with all manner of dynamics, and it's a way to make someone feel entirely captive and controlled while simultaneously giving them one of the most intensely pleasurable physical experiences of their lives. Just bear in mind that sensation this major can be overwhelming - start slowly, build up gradually and always be aware of where your partner is at both physically and emotionally.

There's a lot to be said for slow, sensual sex, of course, and romance certainly has its place - but sometimes you just want to get down and dirty with someone who's as rough as you are. Rough sex isn't always kinky, it could be just a rough kiss, but for many BDSM fans, it forms a vital part of their sexual lives and relationships. The beauty of it is that it usually doesn't need a lot of planning or equipment; you can rough your enthusiastic partners up pretty much anywhere, anytime and anyhow. Just remember to play with a safeword, as people don't need whips and chains to reach their limits or realise that they need to call for a time out.

The vast majority of people who practice BDSM keep their fun and games strictly as a part of their sex life. There's also a significant minority of practitioners who have a kinky relationship outside of the bedroom but in a relatively subtle way; their dynamic permeates many aspects of their lives and is inherently part of who they are as a couple, but you wouldn't usually know it to look at them. A few, however, practice what is known as '24/7' - a lifestyle in which they are permanently in role and permanently overtly kinky. Couples who live this way usually have rituals, modes of address and acts of service that form parts of their daily lives. It's a reasonably rare choice IRL, but a very common fantasy for many kinksters!

Bondage and restraint is sexy and fun but what about taking it to the extreme? Water bondage combines restraint with water, upping the fear factor considerably. It is a very extreme BDSM activity and definitely calls for the use of RACK rules (Risk Aware Consensual Kink) as there is a very real risk of death when indulging in it. We’re not trying to put you off, but you need to know the dangers so you can be prepared for them, right? Water bondage can happen in a body of water (such as a bath or a pool) or can be used on someone on dry land. Remember though to do your research, know your stuff and don’t undertake this extreme kink unless you’re completely confident you know what you’re doing.

The first thing most people think of when they hear the word bondage is shibari or kinbaku. By far, the ancient Japanese practice is one of the most common and oldest types of rope bondage. With intricate knots and designs available the sky’s the limit. But don’t limit your imagination to just using rope, there are plenty of other things you can use. Many people with a latex or rubber fetish use bondage gear made from this material. Hoods, straps and cuffs are a few examples. They are a good alternative for kinksters who aren’t into leather or are vegan. Traditionally ball gags are made from rubber or silicone balls and a leather strap, but they can also be found with latex or rubber straps. The next most common bondage material is leather. Bondage gear varies from harnesses, cuffs and collars to full body suits, gimp masks and more. Leather harnesses are quite popular amongst the gay fetish scene and play well into many bondage scenes of domination and submission. If you’re in a pinch and you don’t have any of your BDSM sex toys or gear with you, or you’re new and just wanting to try it out, you can always use a scarf, belt, pair of stockings or tie to perform spontaneous bondage. Remember to always be safe when performing bondage! Always have a safeword and a pair of safety shears handy in case you need to cut your partner loose!"

Sissy is a very powerful word. It can be used as an insult but some people seek it out. These people are often male submissives who want their Dominant, often a Mistress or Domme to feminize them. It’s sometimes referred to as forced’ feminization but the act is completely consensual. If the person being sissified wasn’t happy at any time they could get the process stopped. Sissification is often linked with humiliation, domination and orgasm denial. It can be something that you do on your own for your own satisfaction too, you don’t need a Dom to have fun with sissification. Cover image: lust4lthr via via Flickr.com CC BY 2.0 license

Humiliation can really get the motor running, especially for those who love a bit of D/s in the bedroom and other places. A specific type of humiliation enjoyed by mostly men is small penis humiliation (or SPH). It makes the person feel awkward and uncomfortable and that can really be a big ol’ turn on. It’s not something you can really do solo, you need someone to humiliate you. To make you feel you’re your cock really just isn’t going to measure up at all. If this sparks your interest, read on and maybe you’ll find your exacting mistress or master here on Fetish.com.

Orgasms are great, right? Sometimes though you just want to revel in the anticipation. When you purposefully keep yourself, or someone else from orgasming it’s called edging. A form of orgasm control, the practice keeps you on the very edge of coming. Sexual edging can be indulged in on your own or with a partner. It can be a way to enjoy stronger orgasms or can be a way to show power or control over a submissive partner in a D/s relationship or scene. If you really have fun enjoying the journey and not the destination, edging is definitely your fetish.

Suspension bondage is often just called suspension and is mostly done using rope. Although it can be achieved with chains or cuffs too or a combination of all those things. It’s a very advanced variety of bondage that involves the rigger (person doing the tying and suspending) really knowing what they’re doing. It is a risky form of play but one that is very popular because of the way it looks, the sensations given to the bunny and the variety of positions and suspensions that can be undertaken. Taking bondage from tying down to being tied up, literally, your feet won’t touch the ground

Humiliation play is a cornerstone of BDSM for many kinksters. Some enjoy physical humiliation and being forced to carry out humiliating acts: serving as a toilet, an ashtray or a piece of furniture for a dominant partner comes into this category. Others like to take on humiliating roles, such as that of an animal or a slave. The most common expression of sexual humiliation in kink, however, is verbal. Name calling and insults are massively common parts of many BDSM encounters, and with consent and pre-discussion can add a fantastic frisson to events! Just make sure you negotiate well in advance - people's limits in this area can be super specific.

A feeling of subservience is an important aspect of BDSM for many. It's often an integral part of the Dom/sub dynamic, and can be vital to those on both sides of the proverbial whip if they want to deepen their relationship and enhance the feeling of dominance and submission between them. In practice, subservience comes in many form: s-types might want to wait on their dominant partners, bringing them food and drink or carrying out tasks at their behest, but it can also be a far more psychological thing that comes from the way the two parties relate to each other. Subservience can be as subtle or as overt as its participants desire, and in many cases is barely perceptible from the outside!

Chastity is a very common kink and is fantasised about by many people from the perspective of both the chastener and the chaste. For Dominant types, it tends to be about control and ownership. A submissive in chastity is at the mercy of their Dominant, and can't pleasure themselves without first being freed. For the submissive, it's thrilling because it's another way of being out of control. The ability to use and touch your own body as you see fit is a fundamental thing to have removed and for many, that's an enormous turn-on. There are many kinds of chastity devices such as chastity belts and chastity cages, so experiment a little to find the right sort for you.

Nipples are sensitive parts of the body and respond strongly to stimulation. Some people really love all kinds of nipple play. From soft, gentle stroking to nipple clamps there’s bound to be some kind of nipple play for you to enjoy. There’s no need for special equipment, pinching, licking, stroking and biting are great ways to indulge in nipple play. But if you want to get really into it, you could use clamps or suckers or if you’re a fan of pain, staples or needles through the nipple can be fun. It all counts as nipple play, so you have plenty to explore and enjoy.

Fear plays into a lot of BDSM, and one of the most basic and visceral fears is of being left alone. Abandonment play uses this to emphasise the controlling position of the Dominant partner(s) and the vulnerability of the submissive/s. It can involve restraint as well as distancing from the Dominant. Often imagined in fantasies, abandonment play is an extension of putting imagination into reality by the use of role play. For example, a common fantasy could be included in BDSM scenes with a little thought, risk assessment and safety. If you enjoy your play with an edge, this is the kind of play to indulge in.

Food is a comfort; we all have our favourites, the ones we could sit and eat all day. We all know what it feels like to be full after a huge meal, where you just had to have another serving or that one last cupcake. Feederism finds the erotic in this feeling and creates a fetish with a clear D/s dynamic. Some enjoy feeding, and others enjoy being fed. The end goal is often to have the feedee appear to gain weight, which can be for a short amount of time or longer periods.

Often an orgasm is seen as the treat you get after enduring torture. But sometimes the orgasm is just where the torture starts. Post orgasm torture is all about over-sensitised body parts and pushing them to feel more than a person might be comfortable with. It’s a way of making pleasure hurt. It’s a fantastic way to make your sub regret their desire to come. Use their desires against them and exert your Dominance with a side order of sadism. Who could be upset by getting more than they originally asked for? Try a little post orgasm torture and find out!

People with vaginas have the G-Spot, an area of tissue deep inside that can cause orgasms which are significantly different from clitoral orgasms. The P-Spot (or prostate) is the equivalent spot in penis owners. It's located in the rectum and can give multiple orgasms without other stimulation or ejaculation. It's this orgasmic feeling that prostate milking is all about. It's a solo and partnered activity that can bring lots of sexual satisfaction. Prostate milking isn't reserved only for gay men, but for everyone who has a prostate, this activity is a fun, safe way to explore sexual pleasure together or alone.

Everyone has experienced a time when their underwear accidentally gets bunched up between their butt cheeks. While it can be uncomfortable and embarrassing, wedgies can be so much more than an inconvenience. It has been used as a form of bullying for years, but wedgie fetishists find the enjoyment in the pain and humiliation of wedgies. No matter your preference for undergarments whether it's knickers, thongs, panties or boxers, you can find the thrill in pulling them tight or having someone else do it for you. It's a fantastic way of playing with Dominance and submission with nothing more than your underwear.

Figging is something enjoyed by BDSM enthusiasts today, but originated as a punishment for slaves in ancient Greece and the Roman empire. The term figging comes from the practice of dishonest Victorian salespeople. They would put a plug of peeled ginger in the anus of an old or sick horse to make it move around anxiously - making it appear like a much younger and more energetic horse. From these weird roots, we get the act of figging for painful pleasure - a warm and spicy way to heat up sex and BDSM play with just a little ginger root.

Sweaty, body to body contact, twisting and turning, fighting to pin the other person down, and wanting to end up ecstatic and on top. Yep, we're talking about wrestling, but it also sounds like a fun sex session, right? That's what erotic wrestling is—embracing the erotic of the act of two humans wrestling for Dominance. Primal and thrilling in many ways and more than just a fight to see who is the winner. There are connections to the professional sport of course, but with extensions that make it a sexual act in and of itself.

Role play is a fun way to add a little spice to any relationship. You don’t need any special equipment all you need is your imagination and a couple of sexy roles to actually play. Handyman comes over to pretty girl’s house to fix something or other must be one of the most famous storylines in porn and it’s easy enough to replicate in real life. Wear overalls and carry a tool box or just improvise, there’s no one right way to play, just get handsy and have lots of fun fixing stuff that isn’t broken. No need to know your way round a u-bend for Handyman role play!

Animal play is also known as pet play and involves a submissive person taking on the role of a particular animal. Most of these roles are pets such as puppies, kittens and ponies but rarer animals can by imitated too. A dominant who looks after a person during animal play is known as an owner or a trainer. They may get their pet to accept treats from their hand, crawl on all fours or wear a lead for example. It all depends on what kind of animal their pet is.

You might not have heard of yiffing unless you’re part of the furry community. It’s a term for sexual activity. It can mean anything from porn or cybersex to real life fucking. It covers all kinds of sex and isn’t just one certain sex act but is all about furries getting it on. Doesn’t matter what sex they are or how many of them are engaged in play, yiff is the all-encompassing term for sexy fun times whilst in a furry persona. Or should that be purrrrrsona? We suppose it depends what kind of animal you are, really.

Everybody has heard of cosplay, it’s dressing up but with a particular film, video game, book or comic character in mind. It’s something many think of as quite vanilla, but it can be kinky too! It’s all about context. The BDSM and kink community are very welcoming and there is lots of crossover with other alternative lifestyles including goths, gamers and, of course, geeks. It’s a welcoming world where you can wear your cosplay and get sexy with it. Often cosplay fetish goes hand-in-hand with other clothing fetishes such as latex or leather but often it’s more about the opportunity to roleplay. Who doesn’t want to be a hero or a villain sometimes?

Female masking started in the 1980s when a man working on the batman films got inspired to make a female mask for himself. This started a movement of predominantly men who enjoy dressing up like female dolls. It can sometimes involve whole latex body suits including breast forms that turn a man into a feminine living doll. The person then takes on a completely different name and persona from when they’re dressed like they usually would. Do you enjoy female masking and being a living doll or want to know more? Check out our forums and chat with other kinksters into the same fetish as you. Cover image: Kallie Scott via via Flickr.com CC BY 2.0 license

Vampires are popular in movies and books and are a constant feature in society. They are monsters, but they have a sexual allure that hasn't changed since Dracula and brings us to the Twilight series of films and beyond. Vampire role play is understandably popular in the kink community. There are elements of control and submission, blood play and mind control and glamour too. Role playing as a vampire or a vampire victim is very sexy and can be kinky also. Which one would you be? Do you want to be the sucker or be sucked or maybe you'd like to try both!

All kinds of sexual roleplay happen in vanilla, kink and fetish relationships. It's a staple of sexual play, taking on a different role for a while to get away from the day-to-day grind. Puppy play is a prevalent type of pet play, where one person takes on the personality of a puppy by dressing up or acting as a puppy would. It's a way to take and give care in a simplified manner, for example giving treats for good dogs and punishments for naughty ones. Puppy play can be a fun way to let your inner primal come out to play, too.

Your brain is a sex organ, too, especially your imagination. A werewolf fetish is centred in myths and stories and plays out in role play. An enjoyment of werewolf fiction might be an indication of inner werewolf loving inclinations. Primal fetish is well-known in the BDSM world, and werewolf fetish is a fantastical extension of this. You can enjoy being stalked by a dangerous, primal beast in a safe and fun environment. Biting, scratching and chasing are all part of werewolf fun as well as transformation. Are you bored of being a human? Enjoy some sexy shifter play and embrace your inner wolf.

Who doesn’t love a bit of role play? We’ve all played pretend at some point in our life, but adult role play has got to be the best. We can explore different roles and situations in the safety of our own home and with only our imaginations to limit us. Torturer captive prisoner role play taps heavily into the Dominance and submission areas of BDSM, giving one person all the power over their prisoner. From modern day cops to old fashioned torturer, you can role play any capture scenario you like without having to go anywhere near a real prison cell!

Gender play is just what it sounds like, playing about with gender roles. It’s role play where the people involved take on a gender other than their own. So this could be a male dressing up as a female or a non-binary person dressing up as a guy for sexual play time. It can involve elements of dominance and humiliation, sissification and forced femme are 2 common types of gender play. However, these elements don’t have to be present, it’s simply about role playing another gender than your own for sexual pleasure. It’s something you do for a session now and then, just like any other role play but instead of dressing up as a plumber you dress up as the opposite sex.

Age play is increasingly popular in kink circles, and comes in many different forms. The best known is, paradoxically, probably also the rarest; while adult babies and people heavily invested in diaper play certainly do exist and have valid and varied sexual expression, roleplaying a generally childlike demeanour with an authoritative figure is far more common. 'Ageplay' is an umbrella term and it covers a wide variety of kinks and identities; anything that involves roleplaying an age difference between two partners comes under it, including dynamics where one person acts in a cutesy or youthful way without embodying any one specific age.

Dominants of all kinds often enjoy getting their submissives to beg. There are just so many ways to employ the principle: begging to be allowed to orgasm is a popular option, or for a way out of a punishment, or for something that is perceived as a reward. Begging is often verbal, but there are physical ways to beg - impromptu oral with an edge of desperation to it often does the job nicely! From the sub's point of view, the trick is usually to let go of feeling self-conscious and give in to a baser and more carnal set of instincts and desires. It can be an oddly liberating experience, and is usually a major boost to the dominant in question too!

The concept of the "perfect submissive" is, of course, fantasy and myth. Everyone has different interests, different fantasies and different preferences - and this is true on both sides of the proverbial whip. That said, BDSM training is a popular fantasy scenario for a reason: there's something wonderfully submissive about learning and being taught, and when that relates to a particular partner it's often a fantastic bonding experience. Training scenarios also play on the dynamic between a teacher and a student, or an owner and a servant - which are of course some of the most textured, layered and influential in the kinky world.

Medplay is an incredibly common kink - and it has a few iterations and subcategories. For obvious reasons, anything specifically gynaecological is particularly popular. Speculums, stimulating or numbing creams, sensation testers such as pinwheels and physical examinations are all appealing both physically and psychologically. Fans of the gyno fetish enjoy them for both the sensations they create and the mindfuck or dynamics they can lead to. There's something uniquely exposing of sitting in a gyno chair and being examined "down there" - and there are plenty of ways for a couple interested in that side of BDSM to use that to their kinky advantage.

Most people get turned on when they hear someone telling them about what they'd like to do to them later, though only if it's the right person and the right situation, of course! For kinksters, this tendency can become a fetish in its own right: dirty talk in a BDSM context can often be quite harsh and aggressive, and to an outsider might even seem humiliating or abusive. Make sure before you try something like this that you've had some crystal clear conversations about it beforehand. For most people, there are some things that will turn them on and others that will be an instant mood-killer, so be as careful as possible, and make sure you know what those things are in advance. It's also important to ensure you aren't overheard by anyone who might feel uncomfortable about your dirty talk, particularly if your specific kinks are ones it might be easy to misinterpret.

Cuckolding is often viewed from the position of the cuckold, but that is only part of the equation. Every cuckolding group needs its bull. The sexually Dominant partner of the group, the bull can be any gender but is the one who's in charge of what's going on. Cuckold used to be an insult for a man who's wife had cheated on him - but no more! Cuckolding is a fun fetish which can have BDSM elements. Cuckolding is ideal for Dominants who enjoy group sex, and it can form a significant part of a polyamorous relationship. Who said that three's a crowd? They obviously haven't had any cuckolding fun!

CG/l stands for 'Caregiver / little', and is a gender-neutral catch-all term for many of the relationship dynamics found under a certain portion of the ageplay umbrella. Perhaps the most widely discussed of these dynamics is DD/lg (Daddy Dom/little girl), but all possible variations exist and identifying as a caregiver or a little is not bound by sexual orientation or gender identity! Some people enjoy incorporating the accoutrements of being 'little' into their play, such as pacifiers or colouring books or childlike clothing. Others simply enjoy the dynamic and fantasy, without wanting so much to express their littleness outwardly. CG/l sometimes comes alongside AB/DL, but there are significant differences between the two communities and the fetishes are not quite the same thing!

'Crossdressing' is a slightly archaic term these days, though some people - usually those who identify definitively with one binary gender but enjoy wearing the clothes of and playing the role of the other for social, sexual, personal or performative purposes - find it one they identify with more than any other. Drag kings and queens are often thought of as crossdressers, as are transvestites - though be very careful when describing someone as a transvestite, as while some crossdressing people self-identify that way it has been used as a slur often enough that it's a word best avoided unless you know someone likes it.

There are a lot of great things about sharing erotic photos of yourself online. It can help your own self-confidence, it can turn yourself and your chat partners on, it can add a sense of realism to kinky exchanges or cybersex scenes and it can be a lot of fun to do. It's important to be careful, though. Make sure you understand the risks: these photos can't be entirely taken back once they're out there, and unscrupulous partners could use them in ways you weren't expecting and didn't consent to. Only share shots of yourself knowing these risks, and if you're not happy to take them it's best to keep your pictures to yourself!

Gothic culture is primarily about fashion and music, but it crosses over with the fetish scene in a few ways. For one thing, gothic dress and fetish wear can be quite similar; many people who are a member of both subcultures wear the same outfit to events on either side, and it's not always possible to spot the difference! Another link comes from the way that social subcultures tend to work. If someone is already perceived as being a little unusual in one way - because they're a goth, because they're kinky or because they're queer, for example - they're more likely to be open to the idea of exploring other unusual hobbies and cultures. This means that your local goth club and your local munch probably have a broadly similar clientele!

Pornography isn't always visual. For many people, the hottest porn of all is to be read rather than watched - and erotica is huge business. There are plenty of specialised publishers putting erotica out, so whatever your tastes you'll be able to find erotica that works brilliantly for you. Just don't be afraid to shop around a little before finding an author you love - everyone has their own style, and there's something out there to get you going if only you can find it! Have a look through some free samples to find an author you like, and then see if there are any other authors they recommend as similar to them.

Originally, the 60s concept of 'free love' centred around the idea that monogamy was unnatural (especially for men) and that everyone should be free to act out their fantasies. This was a great idea, but it came with some drawbacks: for one thing it wasn't a feminist movement in the way we'd expect now, and for another it was mostly put to bed by the AIDS crisis. That's not to say that free love is dead - far from it! Swingers, polyamorists and non-monogamous folk of all types are still upholding the best of the principles of the original 1960s trailblazers - it's just that now we're doing it with more feminist ideals, awareness to sex-positivity and a much better understanding of safer sex.

Here at Fetish.com, we've written before about the joys of sexting and cyber sex. Done anonymously with strangers online, it can be a wonderful way of exploring your kinks and figuring out your boundaries before taking the risk of translating things into real life. Used as part of an already-existing relationship it's an opportunity to spark up a little passion, keep things boiling over and help you feel connected to each other. If you're in a new relationship, these sexy messages will help you figure out what they're into and make the sex you have when you're physically together better than you could have imagined.

Literally meaning ‘the husband of an adultress’ a cuckold is someone whose wife/long term partner is having sex with another person, often another man. It’s been used for years as an insult and is currently ‘cuck’ is over used by alt right men against men who support feminism etc which is a very wrong way to use the term. A cuckold in fetish terms is a submissive man who enjoys seeing his wife/Mistress/partner having sex with another person. It’s a type of erotic humiliation that can go hand in hand with all kinds of other fetishes like female domination for example.

Polyamory, which translated means 'many loves', is a kind of open relationship in which people have more than one partner at a time. For many, these relationships are serious and ongoing, with a whole lot of love in them - after all, love is not a finite resource. It's not that people who consider themselves polyamorous don't feel jealousy or conflict, but that they choose to deal with those emotions in different ways - by dealing with them rather than by stamping out the cause of them. While many kinky people and fetishists are also polyamorous, polyamory isn't a fetish; it's a lifestyle choice and a relationship orientation.

For most nudists, nudism and kink couldn't be further apart. The idea behind nudism isn't to sexualise nudity but to desexualise it; to make it an ordinary and freeing part of daily life. That doesn't mean, however, that nudity in and of itself isn't a fetish for many! A lot of BDSM clubs have areas in which people can be as naked as they like, and many club-goers find it not only a hot turn-on but also a liberating way to cut loose and relax. Of course, nudist venues are a stalwart of porn no matter how far that fantasy is from the truth! Just remember that while these scenes can be hot, they're not a good way to behave in real life--expecting a porn set is a good way to get yourself thrown out of a nudist beach or nude spa ASAP.

Humans have always made, consumed and loved pornography. There have been plenty of arguments about it over the years - who it's bad for, who should be able to access it, what its connotations might be - but ultimately, what's clear is that it's a fundamental fact of the human condition and it isn't going anywhere. The answer isn't to try and stamp it out, particularly not as for many people it's a healthy form of sexual exploration and self-expression; what we need to do now is work together as a community to create new, inclusive, ethical porn that's as hot as hell to boot.

For as long as there have been artists there has been erotic art. Photography is now the most common medium for such images, but it's been done in everything from cave painting to collages. It's sometimes said that the difference between 'naked' and 'nude' is how artistic it is - and while that might not be true, it's certainly the case that erotic imagery can have creative potential. Here at Fetish.com, we love exploring the boundaries between the erotic and the artistic, which is something the BDSM community has enjoyed for decades.

Swinging is another form of non-monogamy, though one that looks at the question from a very different perspective to polyamory. Swingers tend to be in serious, stable, primary relationships and have occasional sex with other people who are also in those relationships; the primary couple is considered the most important thing of all, and the theory behind the extra-marital sexual relationships is that they're 'a bit of fun' without too much romance or a lot of intense emotions. Of course, in practice swingers often form wonderfully intense bonds with their other partners; human connection is what it's all about, after all!

Of all the many kinds of pornography available online, hentai is one of the most misunderstood - and one of the most vilified. It's a type of animated porn originating in Japan, and everything in it tends to be highly exaggerated; the women tend to be tiny and youthful, while the men are built and muscular with remarkable fantasy-land penises. The plots are no less fantastical, complete with everything from tentacles to violent rape scenes. Non-consent fantasies can be healthy, enjoyable parts of a person's sexuality, but it's vital to keep a line between fantasy and reality and always have consent at the forefront of your mind.

Beach sex comes up time and again in a hundred films, and it's the subject of all manner of romantic scenes in books and other media. It's supposed to be the ultimate in sexy: hot, sweaty, romantic and picturesque. The trouble is that sand gets everywhere, beaches are generally public spaces and there are some parts of your body on which you really don't want sunburn! There are two main options: either frequent a beach that explicitly allows sex to take place, or wait till nightfall and find somewhere nice and secluded to hide out. Dealing with the sand afterwards is your own problem to figure out, of course...

So there are two main issues with sex in the water. One is that it tends to wash away a lot of the essential lubrication, meaning that things can get a little paradoxically dry down there - and the other is that water's natural buoyancy means it can be a bit more difficult than you might imagine getting everything in place. The trick is to bring some water-based lube in with you, anchor yourself on the side of the pool and keep experimenting till you find something that works for you and your partner! This is an experience well worth having, though it might take a little while to get it right.

Most people love a bit of outdoor fucking from time to time, but for some, it's a huge deal and a common feature in their fantasies. If this sounds like you, it's a good idea to pick your locations to have sex in the open wisely; quiet beaches and deserted woodlands are fantastic, but a family resort is probably not a particularly good idea! Make sure you're not in the line of any CCTV cameras, and you aren't about to fall into a patch of stinging nettles. Other than that, just so long as you're careful to attain the consent of any bystanders and you're not breaking any local laws, you're ready to go - and the experience can be a beautifully liberating one.

Swimming costumes are often sexy as hell, and days by the pool bathing in the sunshine and enjoying a few fruity cocktails can be an erotic experience for many. If you can get around some of the more obvious problems (lack of lubrication, nothing to brace yourself against, a potential for being caught) swimming pool sex is a fantastic way to bond with a partner and try out something new. If you get the chance to explore, do try it out - there's a lot to be said for getting down and dirty in the cool water on a hot summer day!

Saunas have long had a reputation for being a mainstay of gay sex clubs, but in recent years they've been branching out. Pretty much anyone can enjoy a little playing around in a straight or gay sauna; there's something liberating about the steamy gloom of them, and it's a fantastic spot for exhibitionists and voyeurs alike. Just make sure you've picked the right sauna (your local sex club is one thing; your local swimming pool quite another!) and that you have the consent of all parties involved, including those who are simply bystanders. Make sure you take a few basic safety precautions before having sex in a sauna, too - don't get up to anything too acrobatic, and stay well away from the brazier full of hot coals!

Most people spend a huge amount of their time at work, so it's only natural that the friendships forged there should sometimes turn into a little more. Sex in the workplace has an undeniable frisson to it, born largely of the fact that it's forbidden. Just make sure you keep your wits about you - it's not going to be worth losing your job over, and as always consent of all involved should be very much your primary concern. A safe option might be to indulge in a little roleplay with your partner at home; Boss/secretary is a common choice, and contains a delicious power dynamic that many people enjoy!

The truth is that elevator sex is a lot more fun in fantasy than in reality. While there's something wonderful about the idea of quick, furious sex - perhaps with someone you've never seen before and won't ever see again - there are a few issues with the notion; for one thing, you've got such a limited amount of time and the situation is so unpredictable that you never know when you might be disturbed! You should also bear in mind that there are probably cameras in there, and that many buildings will have serious regulations prohibiting indecent exposure.

Most teenagers have necked in the back of a cinema at some point or other--but as adults, some people take the idea a little further! For established couples figuring out how to make a subtle fumble in the dark work without getting caught can add a frisson of excitement - but what about those of us who don't already have a particular partner in mind? It's not a good idea to start trying to mount strangers while they're trying to watch a film, but the new wave of "old-fashioned" blue cinemas often have people on the lookout for partners as well as porn. Just make sure you negotiate clearly before you begin!

Cottaging and the glory hole are stalwarts of gay male culture in many parts of the world, not least because they add a wonderful sense of anonymity to proceedings. Plenty of people get down to it in public toilets - sometimes they're your only option, but cottaging is a subculture. If you're interested in finding gay cottaging locations near you, it's never been easier to look them up; a little judicious searching online should tell you everything you need to know! Just make sure you wrap it up and don't cross anyone's boundaries while you're there.

Locker room sex may be the subject of a thousand gay porno's, but it does happen in reality - especially if you're at a gay sauna or discreetly at public gyms. There's something erotic about the idea of a bunch of guys getting naked and steamy together and becoming utterly distracted by each other's glistening bodies. The reality is that those moments do happen spontaneously, but it depends on the place in question. That doesn't mean it isn't hot to imagine though, particularly when you're getting changed and you find a guy particularly attractive. Although, it should always be consensual of course!

Adults often sexualise the things that were important to their developing sexuality when they were teenagers. This means a lot of grownups are turned on by schoolgirl or cheerleader outfits, but it also means - particularly in America, where driving from a young age is commonplace - that just as many are warmed up by the idea of revisiting car sex! Once it was your only option, but now it's a luxury and a bit of a naughty pursuit - so get your nostalgia on and enjoy the ride. Just beware, having sex in the car is probably a little more cramped and uncomfortable than you remember now that you're so much older and wiser!

Dogging is a fine old tradition, upheld by generations of people who fancy a bit of anonymous sex of an evening. It's the straight couples' answer to the gay couples' cottaging, but people of all sexualities and gender identities can enjoy a spot of car park sex if they know where to look. The anonymity is a huge part of the appeal: it's considered declasse in most dogging hotspots to ask for names or phone numbers! If you're interested in trying this out, have a look online for good dogging locations near you. Just make sure you experiment safely: don't get into anyone's car, take a mobile phone with you and try to tell someone you trust where you're going to be.

Once upon a time, nobody had a personal computer and many didn't have any kind of video player or cable television connection, and so was the adult cinema born. They quickly developed a reputation for being dingy and sleazy, and with the advent of the internet they all but died out - until recently. An adult movie theater of the 21st century is nothing like the dark, awkward venues of decades past. Most are set up to be clean and comfortable, and generally offer a flat entrance fee after which you can move from screen to screen as you see fit. You'll find a broad range of sexual preferences and gender identities at these places, particularly if you seek out adult theaters that offer couples-only or LGBTQ-specific nights.

There are as many different kinds of sex parties as there are people who throw them, and most of them are much more 'normal' in feel than the uninitiated might imagine. Whether the kind of sex parties you're after is a swinger's orgy, a night of BDSM experimentation or simply a threesome or group of kinky, poly friends getting naked together, there will be a way for you to arrange it - and we have plenty of tips and advice! If you don't yet know the right people, have a look through our events section to see if there's any 'open-invites' taking place near you soon.

Stockings are often associate with sexy outfits, in fact they are sexy even when you’re wearing nothing else. Some people find them endlessly fascinating. Fishnets or seamed, hold ups or not, stocking fetishists enjoy many aspects of stocking wearing. The look of stockings held up with a suspender belt under a short skirt for example is something that many people with a stocking fetish love. Some combine the love with other fetishes such as latex and rubber, because not all stockings are nylon. Whatever they’re made of though, someone is bound to appreciate them. Wearing or looking at someone else wearing stockings can be very sexually arousing.

Role play is a core part of BDSM and fetish for a lot of people, and what is role play without costumes? While you could think of the kind of fetish wear people often wear out to clubs and parties as a 'costume', that's not usually what people mean by the term; they're generally referring to a schoolgirl, secretary, pet play or other overtly fetishised outfit designed to help the wearer embody a particular role that is not quite their usual selves. Dressing up like this is a lot of fun, and can really help people get into the headspaces they're looking to explore.

There are thousands of ways to work masking into your kink. Gas masks, for example, are a relatively common fetish; the look and feel of wearing one is highly evocative, and they have a wonderful way of making you feel cut off from the outside world. Gimp and latex masks are iconic to many kinksters, and leather masks are a versatile go-to for all kinds of people in the BDSM community. Other prominent options are medical and animal masks, which each belong to its own fetish play. Masquerade ball styled events are pretty standard in BDSM clubs, and there's something sexy about the allure of a good mask in many contexts!

Gloves can be practical and elegant; they can be long or short, made of latex, silk, leather or other materials. Gloves are something we often take for granted. They're there for when we need to wash the dishes or keep our hands warm in winter. Some people, however, find gloves far more fascinating. A glove fetish might be for a specific kind of glove or one of a particular length. There are lots of variation within this fetish, but the link is that gloves get that person hot either by wearing them or seeing someone else wearing them.

The bondage harness is an iconic symbol for all things kinky and fetish. Often used in mainstream media and film to indicate kinkiness, bondage harnesses are instantly recognisable by just about anyone, even your mother! There are several different styles from whole body to chest harnesses and bras, made too look good and also be practical. Held together with O and D rings, any of these harnesses can be used for restraint and bondage play. Very popular at dungeons, sex clubs and fetish parties, a bondage harness can be worn by any kinkster, submissive or dominant and is a highly popular item of fetish wear.

While most bondage is focused on keeping a person in one place, there are a few methods designed to provide a sense of restriction without entirely keeping the wearer from moving around and using their body. Some shibari ties are designed to be worn under the clothes to this effect, but they're not you're only option - you also have the ballet boot and the hobble skirt. Hobble skirts are, essentially, extremely tight skirts. They're often made of rubber, leather or latex, and they're designed to greatly restrict the range of movement the wearer has in their legs without completely immoblising them as a straightjacket or something similar would. They're often seen paired with ballet boots, shibari ties and other bondage-focused clothing, and they're a common sight in fetish clubs and at kink parties.

Underwear fetish covers all people who love underwear for all different reasons. Guys who love to wear panties or stockings, at home or under their uniform. People who love to see other’s in gorgeous bra and knicker sets, chemises or corsets and those who want to watch them take it off. It also covers the people who love used panties, ripped pantyhose or just thongs. If you like to look or you like to wear, it’s all captured under this same umbrella term. However you love underwear, if it gets you hot, you might just have an underwear fetish. You can find others with an underwear fetish here on fetish.com

Fetish clothing isn’t all PVC, Latex and leather. Sports gear has a following with people, often gay men, loving items of clothing usually reserved for the sports pitches and gyms of the world. Football shirts, tight baseball shorts, jock straps, American football cleats, wrestling and rugby gear – they’re all sexy as hell to a guy with a sports gear fetish. Lurid changing room fantasies that revolve around putting on tight sports gear or taking off the sweaty stuff are at the centre of this fetish. From tracksuits to tighty whities if sports gear gets you going then explore the world of sports gear fetish with is.

A belt is something that is often taken for granted. It’s a binding the holds up trousers and skirts and is often very functional in looks. However, if you have a belt fetish this common item of clothing is a real turn on! Seeing it wrapped around a sexy waist, cinched tight or left loose gets some people going. Some enjoy seeing a belt stretched between two hands, taut and ready to be used as a restraint or maybe to give a spanking. Others are more interested in the noise a belt makes when removed or the sound it makes when striking flesh. Belts are far more exciting than you might first think, especially if you’ve got a belt fetish.

Are socks sexy? Knee high, sports, ankle, plain white or bright patterns, socks are often seen as just a boring practicality but some people are really turned on by socks. Some people enjoy specific kinds of socks, plain white cotton ones that go with a school uniform or brightly coloured knee highs. Some people enjoy the smell and look of worn socks. Sock fetishists might be turned on by wearing socks or seeing someone else wear them. It’s often called sock worship when someone enjoys watching someone else wear socks. Sometimes the turn on might just be the socks themselves regardless of whether they’re being worn or not. The key factor in any sock fetish is, unsurprisingly really, the socks

Don’t you think that fur feels fantastic? That’s why it has been used to make coats and other clothing for as long as humans have been wearing clothes. Some people though really, really love the feel of fur so much that it becomes their fetish! Soft, sensual and warm, fur fills many fantasies, who hasn’t dreamed of being naked in front of a roaring log fire lying on a fur rug with a lover? If this sounds like your kink, you might just have a fur fetish! Read on to find out more and connect with others who love fur too.

Steampunk has become a massive phenomenon in recent years. It influences fashion, books and movies. It's not something that is widely understood, past being all about cogs and brown clothing, but steampunk is a genre that imagines that the industrial age stopped at steam. It has been popular for a long time among science fiction fans and those who love things historical but with a twist. Convention and cosplay events are popular, and steampunk outfits have become a staple at fetish events, too. If you want to get inventive with cog-driven sex toys and fantasies, then steampunk is for you.

For centuries suits have been a sign of masculinity, wealth and power. The style changes, from tight jodhpurs and frilly, lace-edged shirts in one era to the sharp, straight-edged suits we know today. Worn by people of all genders, suits are symbols of power and are often worn to show superiority or dominance or to fit in with other powerful people. No wonder suits and all the accessories that can come with it are the focus of a fetish! Handkerchiefs, cufflinks and ties all play their part in suit fetish too. The whole package adds up to power-play fun and games for those with a suit fetish.

Leggings have been the butt of jokes for decades, (pun not intended) given the view that they're the trouser choice for those who can't be bothered. Because they're stretchy and tight, they don't leave much to the imagination and often made of shiny fabric that feels nice against the skin, no wonder people develop a fetish for these leg-enhancing pants! They're easily accessible and relatively cheap. Leggings are a handy item of clothing that anyone can wear at any time.

High heels have long been held as some of the very sexiest footwear you can own and wear. Stilettos are often the style that jumps to mind when thinking high heels, with their thin, tall heel but there are all kinds of high heels including platforms and wedges. High heel fetish is one that is very common and lots of people know about it. It can be very much connected with foot fetish but it varies from person to person. Some guys just love the shoes themselves, some like to wear them and others love to see other people’s feet inside them

If you say 'taser', an image of law enforcement officers jumps to mind. But there are tasers (also known as stun guns) made for and used for all kinds of kinky pleasure. Electro sex play is lots of fun, but some people don't like the feel of tens stimulation, or their skin is too sensitive to violet wands to enjoy that play. It's still possible to enjoy the thrill of zapping electric with the short bursts given by a taser. Just a couple of spots hitting the skin means the pain is intense but limited to a small area. A lot of the fun is in the fear play, and the anticipation of pain can be delightful in itself!

Bondage sleepsacks are not unlike sleeping bags, with one significant difference - they zip up to the neck. Sleepsacks are almost entirely restrictive, and you'll need assistance to get yourself into and out of them, which makes them a particular favourite of people whose tastes in bondage run to the immobilising. While your mouth is of course still free, the rest of you won't be, and this makes them a fantastic mind-fuck, and a great thing to experiment with if you like the idea of being restrained and restricted as much as possible. They're comfortable enough for extended use, and some fans love to spend the whole night in them!

Bondage comes in many forms, and shackling is one of the most iconic. Metal shackles are attached to the walls of many dungeons, playrooms and party spaces--and they can take a bit of a pounding, making them a great choice for keeping stronger and more feisty submissives under control! They can be used on the wrists or the ankles, and in some cases are suitable for extended periods of confinement--assuming, of course, you're communicating with the person you've got locked up all the time, and you know how they're doing. If you get a chance to try shackling, it can be well worth it for the aesthetic potential alone.

Bondage rope is perhaps the most fundamental part of any bondage kit, and is a vital addition to anyone's sex toy collection - and the more, the better. Good bondage rope is soft, strong, well sealed at the ends and resistant to fraying. There are countless ways to use it, and a clever dominant can fashion enough rope into almost anything else; cuffs, a collar, even a gag! The most important thing is to have a pair of shears on hand whenever you're playing with rope; that way, if you need to release someone from a tie quickly and painlessly, you won't be stuck fumbling with knots long after they've used a safeword.

Ring gags are unique in that, while they still remove the wearer's ability to use their mouth as they usually would, they leave a few other options wide open. The ring-shaped opening means that a submissive wearing one of these gags can still be put to good use for giving oral sex or playing watersports-related games--all the while being unable to speak, make much noise or regain control over their mouth. Like other gags, they come in a variety of materials including rubber, metal and plastic--and they're available at many different price points. Just take care not to cause choking, and always arrange a nonverbal safeword before the gag goes on. Cover photo: wyldenkinky.

Pretty much any collar serves as a fantastic addition to the look and feel of your BDSM. Posture collars, in particular, are designed to have an extra function. They're not just a way to mark someone as yours, hook on a leash or haul them about a bit! They're pretty rigid and generally very wide, forcing the wearer to stand up straight and hold their head and body in a specific manner. This can add to the psychological aspect of a scene, making someone feel more constrained with minimal effort. They also form part of a training fetish for some people, allowing the wearer to feel as though they're being taught to stand and move the way their dominant partner wishes.

Plastic wrap (also known as cling film or saran wrap) might be more commonly found in the kitchen than in the playroom, but it's a great addition to anyone's bondage kit. It's inexpensive, it's widely available, it's easy to use, it's versatile, and it's deceptively strong - it can be used to immobilise someone completely and is a fantastic way to live out any number of different fantasies. It's even more important to think about safety here than with many other bondage methods, though - plastic wrap can suffocate, and it's vital that you're incredibly careful if your clingfilm bondage gets anywhere near your submissive's face.

Penis gags are ideal for anyone who wants the use of their mouth (including the power of speech) entirely removed in one quick, easy action, particularly if they find that they're able to push ball gags out using their tongue. These gags are broadly similar to ball gags, but instead of having a ball-shaped mouth part the insertable portion of the gag is elongated, in a shape a little like a penis. This makes them easier to strap in tightly, harder to push out and far more overwhelmingly debilitating than other models of gag can be. There are also some fun psychological implications of a gag shaped like a penis! "What is a penis gag? Unlike other gags, the part that goes into the wearer’s mouth is fashioned to look like a penis. It fastens in the same way as other gags and is used in the same way but fills the mouth more than a ring or a ball gag for example.

Nose hooks as a part of bondage are all about finding creative ways to restrict a person's movement. They don't keep someone in place by physically preventing them from moving in a certain way, but by making it almost unbearably painful not to stay still - the nose is incredibly sensitive, and when it's been hooked like this the smallest movements in the wrong direction can be excruciating. They're also a way of making someone look subjugated, controlled and somewhat humiliated, which has a powerful psychological effect on both dominant players and submissive ones. Try combining them with full-body bondage for a thoroughly intensive experience.

Muzzle gags are designed to prevent animals from using their mouths - and submissives can benefit from the same effect! Muzzle gags don't usually remove the wearer's ability to speak, but rather cage around the mouth and jaw just like a dog's muzzle. This means they can still communicate, but they're prevented from making their own choices about what goes in and out of their mouths, and muzzle gags are a powerful symbol of being under someone else's control, too. Some are designed with openable 'hatches' that the dominant partner can unclip to slip in some food or drink, a cock or anything else that strikes their fancy. For obvious reasons, they're especially popular amongst people who are into puppy play.

Bondage mouthguard gags are essentially mouthguards such as the ones worn for sports or to prevent people grinding their teeth in their sleep, only attached to gags that lock around the head. They're generally used by masochists and other submissives who are into pain, because they give something to bite down on--which can be useful and welcomed during many pain play scenes! They're also comparatively difficult to push out of the mouth, particularly when compared to the more common ball gag model. They're generally made from rubber with leather straps, though other types are available. If you're prone to getting a beating, it's well worth looking out for one of these!

Medplay or Medical Play is common all through the kink world, and much of it has a slightly anachronistic feel - harking back to the days when some medical professionals would restrain their patents in ways we would now usually consider inhumane. This can include the use of straitjackets, someone being tied down onto a bed or inside a padded cage, or certain kinds of medical gags and speculums. High-quality medical restraints are often at the more expensive end of bondage equipment when compared with cuffs and rope, but they tend to be highly effective, and the aesthetics of them are undeniable to their fans!

Many people enjoy the sensation of being gagged, but because everyone's mouth is a different size and shape it can be tricky for some people to find a gag that truly keeps them from speaking or pushing it out. Inflatable gags are one way around this problem. They can be inflated to any size and they conform to the shape of the mouth they're in as they're blown up, making them a brilliant choice for the submissive who truly desires to have the use of their mouth restricted as much as possible. Most are made from latex or rubber, making them more durable and helping to protect them against being bitten.

Much of BDSM is psychological, and there's an undeniable appeal to the stereotypes of ye olde worlde corporal punishment. Bondage stocks are inherently a tool of both humiliation and confinement - two of the most important components of many people's kinks. While you won't find them in many town squares these days, they're available in the playspaces of many kink clubs and can be bought from a wide range of specialised sex toy stores. They can also be made relatively straightforwardly DIY style with some carved wood and a sturdy hinge, though for obvious reasons it's important to make sure you've sanded your wood as thoroughly as possible!

Much like stocks, a straitjacket is a symbol of another era that has found its home in BDSM. They're wonderfully restrictive in a way that almost nothing else is, and they can give a sensation of full-body-binding that's as comforting as it is restrictive. Their aesthetics are also appealing to many BDSM fans, associated as they are with an intense power dynamic and a total loss of control in just about every way imaginable. They're often not cheap, but they're available for purchase from many BDSM retailers and most are adjustable to fit a wide range of body types and sizes.

Traditionally, the term 'gay' refers to people who identify as men who date, sleep with and love only other people who also identify as men. Over the years, however, more and more people on the LGBT+ spectrum came to identify with the term; people of many gender identities and sexual orientations sometimes use it to describe themselves now. The controversy surrounding gayness has mostly to do with the fact that cis gay men are seen and portrayed very differently to many other LGBT+ people - and often wind up as the recipients of a huge amount of the acceptance, understanding, attention and publicity afforded to this group as a whole.

"There's nowt as queer as folk" is an often-used phrase in the north of England and means there's nothing as strange as people. This term stems from the 16th-century usage of the word meaning 'odd, peculiar or eccentric.' Some people think of the word 'queer' as an insult given its use in the later 19th and early 20th century. From the 1980s however, the term was reclaimed by those who want to undermine that insult and use the name to show their rebellious, non-gendered approach to homosexuality. The queer community is vibrant and growing day by day.

A transgender person identifies as a different gender to the one assigned to them at birth and is often described as being 'born with the wrong bits'. Unlike cisgender people, a trans person's journey to having the body they want can be long and complex. Some like to label themselves as trans women to show the journey they are on. They experience gender euphoria when their presentation matches the gender they are. It can happen when people use she/her pronouns for a trans woman and respect their chosen names. All trans women are women regardless of surgeries or hormone replacement therapies.

Transgender is a broad term that covers people who don't identify with the gender assigned at birth. Some need to identify both their gender and their journey; this is why some people use the label trans man. It not only states their gender, but it identifies them as part of the broader transgender community too. Trans men are as unique as any other person is, there is no defining feature at all. As with all things gender, it's all about how a person chooses to identify and label themselves, it's no one else's choice but your own.

For a long time, gender has been seen as a binary. Society is very fixed on the idea that there are two sexes, male and female, and nothing else is widely considered. However, this belief is changing as it becomes more and more evident that gender is indeed a spectrum, not just a binary. A growing number of people are identifying as genders that sit between the binary of male and female with a variety of labels available for people to identify with. Non-binary is an umbrella term for these folks. They may also identify as transgender but not necessarily so.

When we're born, we're assigned as a boy or a girl depending on what genitals we possess. Sometime later in life, we question this, and where some people find their way to different places on the gender spectrum, others are happy to stick with the label given at birth - this makes that person cisgender. It simplifies the conversation on gender and removes the rigidity of the gender binary that has existed for so long. Gender is an essential part of what makes you YOU, so it's great to have the language to express it to others.

We all know by now that gender is a spectrum, and nothing about it is binary or black and white. What some people don't yet know is that the same is true of so-called "biological sex". Estimates vary, but scientists think that as many as one in fifty births could be of people classed as 'intersex': of indeterminate sex in some way or another. Traditionally, if this manifests itself in a baby's genital configuration (it doesn't always; some intersex people have ambiguous hormones and/or chromosomes without visibly unusual genitals), so-called "corrective" surgery is performed right away so that the baby can be (often arbitrarily) assigned a gender. People struggle to wrap their heads around the idea that a human might genuinely not "really" be either binary sex, but increasingly the intersex community is campaigning for an end to these surgeries and assignations to give them a chance to make their own choices.

There's a common misconception that the word 'bisexual' means 'someone who is attracted to the two binary genders', but this isn't really the case; generally, the word means (and is used to mean) 'attracted to people of my gender and people not of my gender'. As such, it can have broadly the same meaning as 'pansexual' - and the two terms are increasingly often used interchangeably by people to whom both can apply. Whichever you prefer, it's absolutely vital to remember that bisexuals aren't on the fence, waiting to choose or 50/50 - they're simply capable of being attracted to people of all and any genders.

Like all of the words people use to describe their identities, different people use the term 'lesbian' in different ways -but it's pretty much universal that lesbians identify as women, and have relationships only with other people who also do. Lesbians are, therefore 'monosexual', which means 'attracted to only one gender'. Not all women who are only attracted to women describe themselves as being lesbians, though - some prefer to use 'gay', 'queer' or other terms, for either personal or political reasons. It's always a good idea to ask someone how they self-identify before assuming, no matter how obvious you think they're supposed identity is.

Sexuality is a spectrum, and there's more than one way of being straight. It's true that people who identify this way are in general attracted only to people of a different gender to them - but that can cover a lot of bases! There are more than two genders, after all; there are people who identify as straight who are attracted to others of any gender other than their own. Some straight people are attracted primarily to gender identity, and have relationships with trans partners, while other may find that they seem only to be attracted to cisgendered people. Not even 'straight' is a cut and dried sexuality - never forget that humans are complex, and so therefore are the words they use to describe themselves!

Asexuals (or Ace's) are perhaps the least understood or discussed of all sexualities. Asexuality refers to people who do not, to a greater or lesser extent, experience sexual attraction to other people. Sexual attraction is not the same thing as sexual desire or libido, and attitudes towards sex among asexuals varies widely; from sex-averse asexuals who do not like or engage in sex, to sex-favourable asexuals for whom the lack of sexual attraction may have little impact on an active (even kinky) sex life, and everything between. The asexual spectrum also includes a variety of identities, including (but not limited to) Demisexuals who may become sexually attracted to people to whom they are emotionally close, Grey Asexuals who may experience sexual attraction but only rarely or to a lesser degree, Cupiosexuals who may still desire a relationship despite the lack of attraction, and more. Aromantics (Aro's) are a separate identity based on lack of romantic attraction but with a similar variety of attitudes and orientations - many people identify as both Ace and Aro but the two identities are independent of one another. The core identities of Asexual and Aromantic relate to the absence of one or other form of attraction, with variations on the spectrum recognising more specific experiences and attitudes. Copy subbed by Non-Vanilla Aces - A group for any and all people on the asexual spectrum.

Being pansexual has nothing to do with a sexual attraction to pans (but if that's your fetish, go you!) and it's best not to crack this tired joke when speaking to someone about being pansexual. It's a label some people choose because they don't see gender when they're attracted to a person. Sometimes this is referred to as being gender blind. Pansexual comes from the Greek prefix for all 'Pan', and sometimes people will say omnisexual, which means the same thing, but the prefix comes from the Latin instead. Being free to love regardless of gender is what being pansexual is all about!

While not really a kink, the androgynous look is one that many people find attractive. It's not always necessarily associated with people who are genderqueer or non-binary, though it certainly can be for some people: the term refers to a look that combines aspects of different genders and may well be difficult to pin down. Some people feel most comfortable when dressed this way, while others are primarily attracted to those who look at least a little androgynous; either way, it's an aesthetic choice rather than one that denotes gender identity or sexual orientation. Enjoy your style, explore your preferences and have fun being you!

We're very aware of accents; they surround us. From those we recognise from other counties and states to those we know are from different countries entirely. Everyone has their favourites and those they can't stand, but some people don't just love accents, they lust after them too. Accent fetish is all about aural pleasure, who knew your ears were such an erogenous zone! Your voice can be such a turn on in itself and who doesn't enjoy a little dirty talk? It's all the better if you have an accent fetish, let your words enhance your kinky experiences.

It’s not just about jewellery, not even about rings in general, no, wedding ring fetish concentrates on that one (usually) gold band that sits on the ring finger of the left hand. It’s often an indication that the person wearing it is married. The original wedding rings originated in Ancient Egypt where the position of the ring on the 4th finger of the left hand was significant as they believed there was a vein there that connected directly to the heart. Where in the west, the ring was to denote the wedding dowry of a bride and spread throughout Europe from its pagan roots in ancient Rome and Greece.

Velvet is soft and sensual to the touch. Manufacturing it was a very complicated process before machinery, and it's still not so straightforward. These days velvet is made from all kinds of fabrics; silk velvet is the most expensive and often thought of as the softest and the best. The dense pile and the cut is what gives it that distinctive feel. It's a luxurious fabric that doesn't have to cost a fortune. Classy and sleek, velvet inspires a fetish as its touch is so sensual - no wonder it inspires sexual excitement in some people!

Some people love the water; they love being in it, around it and under it. Swimming and other water-based activities are accessible and enjoyable, but getting a sexual thrill from them could be an indication of an aquaphilia fetish. Enjoying the water, seeing others in water or holding breath under water as well as sexual activity in swimming pools, lakes, rivers, baths or even the sea means this fetish has a broad appeal. Ocean deep, even! It's a fascinating fetish to dive into but always remember the RACK (Risk Aware Consensual Kink) rules.

Xenophilia, as you might expect, is the exact opposite of xenophobia. Instead of being anti anything or anyone foreign, someone who is into xenophilia really, really loves the people and culture of countries other than their own. The word is made up of two greek words. ‘xenos’ which means stranger, unknown, foreign and ‘philia’ which means love or attraction but it’s not a term that appears in classic greek, it’s a modern creation. Often partnered with cultural cringe - which is when you’re being embarrassed about your own culture and people - this fetish really loves the exotic, the foreign and the unknown and that can include actual aliens – out of this world!

Dendrophilia is the sexual attraction to trees. It literally translates as ‘lover of trees’ so if you get wood for wood, you might just be a dendrophile. Whilst it is not a hugely common fetish it does have ancient roots (no pun intended) that stretch back to fertility worship rituals practised by many different races and religions all over the world. Many people feel a strong connection to woods and forests but not everyone is sexually attracted to trees but if you are, then you’re welcome here to find others as into it as you.

We’ve all seen hypnosis on the TV, from getting people to cluck like chickens to the classic ‘You’re feeling sleepy’ line, there’s a lot of preconceptions around the subject. Erotic hypnosis gets tarred with this brush but it’s actually about suggestion and not making anyone do anything they don’t want to do. Working with a person in a suggestive state, Erotic hypnosis (also known as hypno fetish) can be the ultimate in power exchange. Bring your submissive to orgasm with a simple word or gentle touch, now that’s control for you.

Attracted to intelligence? You may be sapiosexual if intelligence is the top of your list of attractive features to have in a partner. It’s not that a sapiosexual doesn’t find other aspects of a person attractive, it’s just that they value intelligence above all else. They’re turned on by feats of brain, not brawn and look for cleverness in any potential sexual partner. They’re attracted to smart people, and not a smart suit. The word sapiosexual has only existed since 2008 but being attracted to brainy people has been a thing though out history. It’s all about engaging the brain as well as stimulating other body parts. You can find other intellectuals on the forums at fetish.com

Who doesn’t love balloons? They’re connected with all things celebratory. However, some people really love balloons. Balloon fetishists are known as looners, they tend to be split between poppers and non-poppers depending on if they like the balloons to pop or not. If you get turned on by balloons being blown up, by sitting on them or rolling around on top of them or even if the pop of a balloon is orgasmic for you, you might well be a looner. There are many kinds of balloons and a million ways to have fun with them. Meet other looners who love them on Fetish.com today!

Paraphilia is a psychiatric diagnosis defined as 'a condition characterised by abnormal sexual desires, typically involving extreme or dangerous activities'. In some cases, this is clear-cut: bestiality and pedophilia are both classed as being paraphilia, for example. The problem comes when the term is overused: it's sometimes employed to medicalise and problematise fetishes of all kinds, which is marginalising and repressing and no good to anyone. At the end of the day, the answer is simple: if your "abnormal sexual desires" are potentially harmful to yourself or others in a way that is non-consensual or more than transient, calling them paraphilia and seeking treatment might be helpful. Otherwise you do you, boo.

Sexsomnia is a relatively rare sleep disorder, and thought to be a variant of sleepwalking. Sexsomniacs exhibit sexual behaviours in their sleep, usually without being aware of their actions or remembering it the next morning. For obvious reasons it can be a problematic condition, but in otherwise healthy relationships the partners of sexsomniacs can usually learn how to manage the condition from their perspective - whether by figuring out how to break the cycle and awaken the sufferer, or by getting into it if they happen to be in the mood themselves! As with all things, communication is key. Talk this over with your partner well in advance, and come up with a strategy that works for you both.

Hypersexuality is a clinical diagnosis used by medical professionals to describe a marked increase in libido. If you’ve not heard the term, it’s what used to be called nymphomania or satyriasis which are gender binary and based on mythology, so not great for a serious, medical condition. People joke around about ‘nymphos’ but it’s not joke, hypersexuality really effects a person’s day to day life. If you feel you have symptoms or know someone who does its important you go and see a doctor about it. It might sound amazing to be horny all the time, after all sex is awesome but when it’s negatively effecting the rest of your life, something is wrong.

Glasses are often used to emphasise specific characteristics of characters in films and books. You've got the thick-framed geek classes, the sleek ones the librarian slips down their nose to look at you and many more. Glasses are associated with intelligence and mystery. Hey, no one realised that Clark Kent was Superman and that it was all down to the glasses he wore! Spectacular spectacles capture the imagination and bring all kinds of sexy seduction to role play and kinky adventures. Headteachers, naughty pupils, secretaries, doctors and nurses – all sorts of sexy role play can be accentuated with glasses. If you love glasses, might have a fetish for them!

Futanari is a Japanese word made from 'Futatsu' meaning two/both and 'nari' that implies form. It originates in Japanese Manga and anime and refers to a character that is intersex. Sometimes it might be that the character is trans or otherwise mixed of two different sex characteristics. Most often, this will be a character with breasts and a penis. Futanari is often depicted in hentai and other porn, and there's usually a cross over with furry fetish. The word's use has changed over time, and before the '90s, it was used to describe any character with intersex characteristics. After then it became associated with both drawn and animated characters and continues to this day.

Clothing is often the focus of fetishes, but it’s usually a specific kind, e.g. bikinis, latex, or velvet. Endytophilia however, isn’t focused on a clothing item or its material. Simply put; clothing is kept on during sex. Getting naked is often code for sex, but you don’t need to be naked to have fun, in fact keeping clothes on can be a real turn on and who hasn’t been so eager to fuck they’ve not bothered with the disrobing first? Use your imagination, and you can get it on anywhere without needing to mess around taking off your clothes!

No sooner does humanity make a new technological innovation than it starts trying to figure out how to use it for sex--and digital photography was no different. In this brave new world where the camera in your jeans pocket is better than any your great-grandparents could have imagined, amateur and erotic photography are practically ubiquitous. It can be an excellent way to explore fetishes, to share intimate moments with people you can't be physically near, and to store away naughty memories to stir you up when you revisit them later. It's worth giving some thought to who has access to your nude photographies and to where they end up. At the click of a button they can be broadcasted all over the world - so make sure you trust the people who are in charge of those buttons!

There's no denying that the internet has revolutionised porn. Where once you needed outside assistance if you wanted to get your homemade images and videos out there, now you can do it entirely alone - and there are plenty of people who find that they prefer seeking out and watching amateur porn to buying more polished and pricey professional examples of the genre. Anyone with a smartphone can release their own content, so if it interests you - what are you waiting for? Just remember: the internet remembers and stores things forever, and there's no way of guaranteeing that your friends and family won't come across what you publish there.

Lap dancing is usually thought of as being a pretty vanilla pursuit, but there are plenty of fetishists who enjoy it as much as anyone else! It can actually be a fantastic act of service from a submissive partner to their dominant, or a fun way to get everyone going at a kink club or a fetish party. Fetish wear adds a certain frisson to the experience, and heavy use of kneeling, bowing and other inherently submissive moves can really add something to the experience. Couples who try out a little lap dancing often say it turns out to be a surprisingly intimate experience - so why not give it a go?

Stripping in the professional sense is a huge industry, but on a more personal level, the reality is quite different. Performing a striptease for your partner can be an intimate and sensual experience for you both. Make sure you stick to clothes you can slip out of easily and sensually. Slowly pulling down a zipper to reveal your cleavage can be one of the sexiest things imaginable--but fumbling around with a bra clip behind your back probably wouldn't be. To get some pointers, you can also visit a strip club together and get inspiration from professional strippers. If you're going to try striptease with your partner, try to keep it lighthearted and be prepared to laugh at yourself. Your show will work much better if you aren't too nervous about it!

The definition of exhibitionism refers to putting one's genitals out on display in public. Plenty of people are turned on by the idea that they're being watched. But, if putting yourself on sexual show is what floats your boat, there are all kinds of great options for exploring this in a safe and mutually consensual fashion! Check out the forums and magazine for reviews and recommendations of sex clubs and scene events in your area. There's absolutely something sexy about the idea of exhibitionism, voyeurism and public nudity - so if this interests you in the slightest it's well worth looking into making it a reality. Just be certain that everyone who can tell what you're up to has consented before you begin.

For every exhibitionist who loves to be seen in sexual situations, there's a voyeur who likes to do the seeing. While traditionally associated with 'peeping toms' and violations of consent, that's not the case in the kink community - there are plenty of ways to get your voyeur on at sex clubs and fetish parties, all with the enthusiastic consent of everyone involved. If you've never watched anyone else go at it before and you find yourself in one of these situations, it's well worth giving it a try; you might be surprised by how much it can turn you on!