Intimacy coordinator reveals what happens if an actor gets an erection on set during sex scene

For men, a rush of blood in the crotch area can be both a blessing and a curse, but for actors getting excited while on set would fill even the most confident of performers with embarrassment.

So, what happens when the small matter of an erection pops up while filming?

Jessica Steinrock, PhD, known on TikTok as @intimacycoordinator, recently addressed one of the frequently asked questions regarding filming intimate scenes.

When biology meets the big screen

In a video on the platform, Steinrock, who has worked as an intimacy coordinator on Yellowjackets, Netflix’s Never Have I Ever, and Hulu’s Little Fires Everywhere, explained that actors are encouraged to ask absolutely anything while on set.

She said it’s her responsibility to ensure performers have all the information they require to feel prepared and supported. That includes discussing “vascular reactions,” which she noted are a normal biological response that can happen to anyone.

For those unfamiliar with the term, a vascular reaction simply refers to increased blood flow to the genitals. Steinrock clarified that this could mean an erection, but it can also refer to increased blood flow to the vulva or natural lubrication.

How intimacy coordinators work with actors

She added that this is exactly why productions spend so much time planning barriers and modesty garments for intimate scenes.

These garments vary depending on the scene and the actors involved. For example, adhesive strapless thongs are often used for scenes showing nudity from the side or back. Actors with penises may wear padded pouches, sometimes designed with extra material to keep them securely in place. Steinrock explained that performers’ garments typically include built-in barriers to reduce physical sensation for both actors during the scene.

In some cases, additional padding, such as sponge inserts, can be added for extra coverage or comfort. Beyond maintaining modesty, these layers also ensure that if a vascular reaction does occur, it isn’t noticeable to a scene partner or the wider film crew, subsequently sparing the actor in question any awkwardness.

Steinrock concluded by emphasizing that actors can request a break at any time, without explanation. If everything is handled properly, she said, there’s no reason anyone else on set would even know an erection happened, even if the performer is particularly well-endowed.

With the film industry coming under increased scrutiny in recent times, after the revelations of sexual abuse from film mogul, Harvey Weinstein, it’s a poignant reminder of how much care and coordination now goes into filming intimate moments on screen.

Featured Image Credit: Juan Moyano/Getty