Introduction
Have you ever wondered how our understanding of sexuality has evolved over time? The journey from Victorian-era hysteria treatments to modern somatic sex coaching is a fascinating one. It reveals how societal norms shaped attitudes toward women’s sexual health and how far we’ve come in reclaiming autonomy and pleasure.
The Victorian Era’s Approach to Sexuality
Victorian England was a time of strict societal expectations, especially for women. Sexual desires were not only unspoken but often pathologised, leading to a culture of repression that profoundly impacted women’s lives. Women were expected to remain virgins until marriage, while men were encouraged to gain sexual experience—often through unethical means. Young men might visit sex workers or exploit female house staff, who were dismissed if they became pregnant. Teenage girls working in households were particularly vulnerable due to a lack of education about sex and boundaries.This double standard extended into medical practices as well. The concept of “hysteria” emerged as a way to medicalise women’s suppressed sexual urges. Physicians treated this so-called condition with genital massage, aiming for what they termed a “hysterical paroxysm”—what we now recognise as an orgasm. While these treatments provided temporary relief for women, they also reflected a deep misunderstanding of female sexuality.
The Birth of Vibrators: A Historical Turning Point
The invention of vibrators is one of the more intriguing outcomes of Victorian medical practices. Physicians who frequently treated hysteria found the manual process physically taxing, which led to the development of the first vibrators to alleviate their hand strain. What began as a medical device eventually became a tool for empowerment and pleasure. Over time, vibrators transitioned from clinical settings to personal use, symbolising a shift towards autonomy in women’s sexual health. This historical context highlights how societal repression inadvertently paved the way for innovations that continue to impact sexual wellness today.
Lessons from History
While we’ve made significant progress since the Victorian era, there are still important lessons we can draw from this period about the importance of education and autonomy in sexual health.Unfulfilled sexual desires can manifest as physical or mental health issues—a reality we still see today when people lack access to proper support or education. Just as Victorian women were denied knowledge about their bodies, many young people now turn to inadequate sources like mainstream pornography for information about sex. Teaching boundaries and empowering individuals to say “no” without pressure remains as essential today as it was then.Reflecting on these lessons helps us understand how far we’ve come—and how much further we still need to go.
Modern Approaches to Sexual Wellness
Today, addressing sexual challenges involves more than just medical interventions or outdated ideas about morality. There are numerous ways to enhance intimacy and resolve concerns in ways that prioritise both physical and emotional well-being.Visiting your GP is often an important first step to rule out physical causes of sexual concerns. From there, referrals to psychosexual therapy can provide additional support. However, traditional approaches may not always address the deeper connection between mind and body that somatic sexology offers.
What Somatic Sexology Brings to Sex Coaching
As a somatic sexologist, my approach focuses on integrating physical awareness with emotional understanding to empower you in your journey toward sexual wellness. Unlike traditional therapy settings, somatic sex coaching allows arousal to be part of the learning process—but always with clear boundaries and consent.My goal isn’t just to provide relief but to teach you how to achieve pleasure on your own terms. This means creating a safe space where you can explore your desires without judgment while learning practical techniques that enhance your confidence and self-understanding.Privacy is also a priority in my practice—there are no lengthy intake forms or impersonal processes. Instead, we begin with an open conversation about your goals and any factors (like trauma or medication) that may be relevant.
Why Choose Somatic Sex Coaching?
Somatic sex coaching offers unique benefits that go beyond traditional methods by focusing on empowerment through education and embodiment. It’s about giving you the tools you need to take control of your own pleasure journey while fostering deeper connections with yourself and others.In my sessions, you’ll learn practical techniques tailored to your needs while exploring your desires in a safe, supportive environment. Together, we’ll work towards enhancing your self-awareness and satisfaction in ways that feel authentic and empowering.
A New Frontier in Sexual Education
The journey from Victorian hysteria treatments to modern somatic sex coaching reflects how far we’ve come in understanding sexuality—but it also highlights how much work remains. Even today, outdated attitudes persist. Even today, in places like Alabama, owning a vibrator requires a doctor’s prescription, highlighting how far we still have to go.
If you’re ready to embrace a new narrative around sexuality—one rooted in empowerment and understanding—I’m here to support you every step of the way.
Let’s reshape how we approach intimacy together.