Millions of women say there are a couple of simple, often-overlooked turn-ons that men routinely miss in the bedroom – and they’re far less complicated than the wild positions or elaborate ideas some people assume women want.

Of course, everyone has their own preferences. And while open communication is always important, many people don’t want to map out every detail for a partner. They want chemistry to unfold naturally, without having to spell out instructions or congratulate each other afterward.

Still, for men hoping to better understand what actually resonates with a lot of women, experts say one particular kink is surprisingly common (and surprisingly easy).

Praise Kink Is More Common Than Many Realize

According to sex professor Dr. Nicole K. McNichols, one of the most widespread desires among women is the “praise kink,” which centers on receiving verbal appreciation or compliments during intimacy.

Sex is a personal thing. Credit: eclipse_images/Getty Images.

“People who have praise kinks get turned on by their partner complimenting them during sex,” Dr. McNichols explained. “It exists on a continuum because, really, who doesn’t love being told they’re beautiful or amazing in some way?”

With more than 60 million searches related to the praise kink on TikTok alone, it’s clear the concept resonates far beyond niche corners of the internet. Dr. McNichols says it often involves women responding strongly to affirming phrases or positive feedback from their partner.

A Second Trend Women Are Quietly Embracing

But praise isn’t the only thing men commonly miss. Experts say a growing number of women regularly engage in a form of self-stimulation that most men don’t know about, and doesn’t require a partner’s hands at all.

The practice, known as “broadening,” has reportedly become increasingly popular. It involves rubbing or pressing the entire vulva against a surface, creating stimulation across a wider area than traditional methods.

Psychosexual therapist Natasha Silverman explains it as “dry-humping on steroids,” since the surface involved is typically broad and stationary. She says the technique engages the deeper structures of the clitoris rather than focusing only on the external tip.

Silverman notes that many clients mention this type of stimulation in therapy without realizing it has an official name. It’s also common among women who discovered self-pleasure early in life, often without knowing what the practice was called.

Credit: Oleksandr Sharkov/Getty Images.

What It Means for Men

For partners hoping to be supportive, experts say awareness is key – though in the case of broadening, there isn’t much a man needs to do unless he’s willing to be the stable surface involved.

The bigger lesson, therapists say, is that women’s desires are often far simpler, more varied, and more communication-driven than stereotypes suggest. And in many cases, the small things, like verbal affirmation, can make the biggest difference.

Featured image credit: Oleksandr Sharkov/Getty Images.

People's bedroom kinks are a reflection of their diverse desires and the ways they seek to explore intimacy and pleasure. These kinks, which can range from light role-play to more elaborate fantasies, are often rooted in a person's unique psychology, past experiences, and evolving preferences. Credit: Witthaya Prasongsin/GettyEngaging in kinks can enhance sexual connection, allowing individuals to express different facets of themselves in a safe and consensual environment. It’s important to note that these desires are deeply personal and should always be approached with mutual respect, clear communication, and consent. When navigated thoughtfully, exploring kinks can lead to a more fulfilling and open sexual relationship.There are all kinds of different kinks, but one that isn't spoken about as much in a mainstream context is the "praise kink".There has, however, been a noticeable rise in interest and conversation around this particular kink, largely fueled by—unsurprisingly—TikTok. As of now, the hashtag #praisekink has garnered 84.6 million views, and #praisekinks has 3.5 million, indicating that this kink is resonating with many.TikTok's unique algorithm, which often delivers content that feels personally relevant, has been a significant factor in spreading awareness. Alongside BookTok, which is doing its part in explaining what a praise kink entails, it seems the phrase "TikTok made me realize I have a praise kink" is becoming a common, and thankfully harmless, realization for many.So, what exactly is a praise kink? And if it intrigues you, how can you incorporate it into your bedroom activities?A praise kink is pretty much what it sounds like. According to Georgia Grace, a sexologist and co-founder of NORMAL, a female- and queer-owned sexual wellness brand, it refers to getting sexual pleasure from being praised or complimented. Examples might include phrases like, "You’ve been such a good girl," or "I’m so proud of you," Grace explained to Refinery29 Australia. It can even extend to dynamics like "mummy and daddy play," where one person is dominant, though this doesn’t imply a link to childhood deprivation or a lack of verbal affection growing up.While people often theorize about the origins of sexual kinks, kink educator Aoife Murray emphasizes that there is no solid research directly connecting a praise kink to specific childhood experiences.Although everyone enjoys compliments from time to time, a praise kink is specifically about deriving sexual excitement from such affirmations. This could include words, phrases, or even sounds like moans and groans that signal approval. The key is receiving validation that you're doing a good job.Grace offers some advice for safely exploring a praise kink. “Even though it might not seem as intense as dirty talk, it’s important to check in with your sexual partners first,” she says. Using a praise kink unexpectedly could be surprising, or even triggering, for some people.As with any sexual activity, explicit consent is crucial. Before using phrases like "good girl" in bed, have a conversation with your partner.If you’re unsure how to bring it up, Grace suggests a simple approach: “Send someone this article and say, ‘Hey, I read about this. Would you be curious about trying it?’” This gives your partner the choice to opt in or out.Grace also recommends testing the waters in a non-sexual context first. For example, you might say something while watching TV to see how your partner responds. This can help ensure everyone is comfortable before bringing it into the bedroom.For some, exploring a new kink is a big event, while for others, it’s no big deal. It can be as simple as saying, "I’ve been such a good girl, I deserve a kiss." The only rules are to seek consent and establish boundaries before engaging.With its positive reinforcement and playful nature, a praise kink is a relatively safe kink to explore. It might not even seem like a kink to some, but as Grace points out, kink is anything that falls outside the "straight and narrow." The term is intentionally vague to encourage inclusion and curiosity.“This is a fun kink to play with,” Grace says. “People can feel more safe dipping into this kink.”Featured image credit: Oleksandr Sharkov / Getty

Men and women often have different ideas about what constitutes good sex, shaped by a mix of biology, social conditioning, and personal experience.

While men may be more likely to prioritize physical pleasure and orgasm as markers of a successful sexual encounter, women often place greater emphasis on emotional connection, communication, and overall intimacy.

Men might think they're doing women a favor in the bedroom by going the distance—but one dating expert says that belief could be totally wrong. Credit: Oleksandr Sharkov / Getty

These differences don't apply universally, but they highlight how varying expectations can influence satisfaction and compatibility in relationships.

Understanding and bridging these perspectives through open dialogue and mutual respect is key to a fulfilling sexual experience for both partners.

For example, men might think they're doing women a favor in the bedroom by going the distance—but one dating expert says that belief could be totally wrong.

According to Jana Hocking, host of the Jana with a J podcast, trying to last for ages during sex isn’t the green flag many men believe it is. In fact, she says it can be a "major turn off" for women.

Speaking to news.com.au, Hocking broke down what she and her friends really think about marathon bedroom sessions.

Spoiler: they’re not fans. “Given the choice between sex lasting 30 seconds or one hour,” she revealed, she and her girlfriends would choose the shorter option, calling it the “biggest compliment ever.”

Not a Numbers Game

Before you start setting a stopwatch, it’s worth noting the science. One study involving 500 couples found that while men pegged the ideal sex time at 16 minutes, most only lasted about six—though they thought it was nine. Another study surveying 4,000 women found the sweet spot was closer to 25 minutes.

Still, Hocking warns against modeling your moves on adult content. She blames “ridiculous p*rn videos that go on forever” for giving guys the impression that more time automatically equals better sex.

Credit: franckreporter/Getty

Boring, Long, and Stressful

What women don’t want, she says, is to spend “an hour in bed doing the same thing over and over again,” which she described as straight-up tedious.

Instead, she praised the underrated quickie: “less stressful,” “better than a boring long session,” and refreshingly spontaneous. Plus, it takes the pressure off having to “last the distance.”

Appetizers, Not the Main Course

Hocking emphasized that when she talks about short sessions, she’s not cutting out foreplay. That, she said, should be seen as “an appetiser.” And just like any good meal, variety is key.

Repetition, she warns, can ruin even the hottest chemistry: “Variety in sex life” keeps things exciting, while turning intimacy into a mechanical routine is a surefire way to kill the vibe.

Instead of pounding away for an hour, she suggested focusing on “building anticipation and desire,” making the climax feel earned rather than endured.

So guys, maybe it’s not about how long you last—but how well you build it up.

Featured image credit: DMP / Getty

A sex expert has gone viral after breaking down what she says are some of the most common male interests in the bedroom that many assume are rare.

Catalina shared her insights in a TikTok video, aiming to challenge what people think is “normal” when it comes to sexual preferences.

In the clip, she points to online communities as proof that these interests are far more widespread than people realize. By referencing subreddit membership numbers, she argues that thousands, and in some cases millions, of people share the same desires.

Her message is simple. What might seem unusual at first glance is often much more common behind closed doors, even if people are not always open about it.

Subreddits reveal how common these interests really are

Catalina backed up her claims by listing four specific interests and the size of their online communities. She said: “Here are some male interests in the bedroom that most people think are super obscure, but are actually really common."

She then outlined the first two, saying: “One, submissive men. R/Femdom has around 800,000 members. Two, feminization. R/Feminization has around 550,000 members and R/Sissy has around 300,000 members.”

According to Catalina, these numbers highlight just how many people are engaging with or curious about these topics, even if they are not widely discussed in everyday conversation.

Millions engage with kinks many assume are rare

Catalina continued by pointing to two more interests with large followings online. She explained: “Three, chastity. R/Chastity has more than 200,000 members and there are tons and tons of subreddits related to this area. Four, cuckolding. R/Cuckold has over a million members.”

The figures suggest that these interests are far from niche. Instead, they are supported by large, active communities where people share experiences and information.

Her breakdown challenges the idea that certain preferences are uncommon, showing that many people quietly explore them online.

Expert urges openness and consent

Catalina ended her video with a message about acceptance and responsibility. She said: “Pretty much, no matter what you're into, thousands, if not millions of other people will be into it too, but a lot of them won't talk about it. So as long as you're looking at the risks, you're being sensible and you're enthusiastically consenting adults, don't let anybody shame you and just have fun.”

The takeaway is that openness and communication matter more than trying to fit into narrow expectations.

Featured image credit: Witthaya Prasongsin/Getty

So, we've found out what annoys men in bed, and what annoys women in bed, so how about finding out what women actually want? As said in the previous articles, communication is key to all forms of sexual relationships. After all, if you don't know what your partner likes, how are you going to give it to them?

Well luckily for us, women have revealed what they like, and they want more of it. So, listen up readers, if you're looking to give your lucky lady a mind-blowing orgasm, this is what you need to be doing.

There's a wide array of memes about men not being able to figure out the anatomy of the female reproductive organs, with the majority of them focusing on their lack of knowledge surrounding where the clitoris is located. Well, you better whack out the biology book guys, because according to a new study, women want more clitoral stimulation in the sack.

A whopping 73 per cent of the 1,000 women who were surveyed, said that they need more stimulation in order to get them off. 36 per cent of the ladies in question, said that they need direct clitoral stimulation in order to reach the big O, with another 36 per cent saying it made their orgasms feel better.

The survey was conducted by the Indiana School of Public Health and found that just 18 per cent of women said that intercourse alone was enough in order for them to climax; essentially, more work is required. However, even more shockingly, nine per cent of women said they they don't climax at all during a session with their partner, making their sex wholly one-sided and not in their favour.

The survey was conducted on women who were aged 18 - 94 and it turns out that there isn't a right or wrong way to touch your lady when it comes to their downstairs parts.

When participants were asked to rank their favourite ways to be stimulated in the sack, 64 per cent of them said they preferred an up and down motion, 50 per cent liked a circular motion and a some preferred to have several different methods.

As always, it's probably best to ask your partner what she likes, something which study author Brian Dodge reiterates: "The study results challenge the mistaken, but common, notion that there are universal 'sex moves' that work for everyone."

Sexpert Annabelle Knight has revealed that the one position that is most likely to make a women orgasm through just intercourse, is surprisingly, missionary. This is thanks to the fact it was one of the only positions that allows for internal stimulation as well as clitoral stimulation. It seems like the majority of Brits agree with her as well, with the man-on-top being the nation's second favourite sex position with 21 per cent of couples favouring it (woman-on-top is the first).

So there you have it, women want more clitoral stimulation when getting down and dirty. It's not rocket science, is it? Sex is meant to be enjoyed by both partners, so don't be selfish and get on down there!

People usually learn about sex from pretty negligent sources. Most high school sex-ed teachers are awkward and dodge the dirty details, and porn is largely an unrealistic parody of what sex actually is like for most regular people. So people usually have to figure out for themselves what they like best – and what others like best – when doing the deed. Actually doing it is the best way to learn about what works in the bedroom, and communication is just as important. You'll get the best idea of what your special person likes through actual, real-life conversations. But sometimes, people feel the need to talk about their sex lives on the internet, and so there is a wealth of information to mine there as well. Just recently, a woman on Reddit posed the question, "what do you wish most men could learn about sex, in order to give you greater satisfaction?", and the internet came through. Of course, while everyone's preferences and deepest desires between the sheets are different, there are some things many women agree on. Here are 10 things told by women about what they wish men would figure out about sex:

1. It's not all about the main course

"Never skimp on the foreplay. The build up is just as good as the finale."

2. Sex shouldn't be object-driven 

"I've asked this of a lot of women IRL. The top two answers seem to be: 1) Sex isn't all about the guys d*ck and 2) The goal isn't an orgasm."

3. Lessons in carpentry

"Please, for the love of god, don't rub our clits like you're trying to sand wood. More pressure doesn't mean it feels better. Make sure to get more sensation on the actual clit, and to move it, more so than just pushing on it."

4. Stop fretting

"D*ck size essentially doesn't matter."

5. Things don't have to be hard all the time

"News flash: you do not have to be hard the entire time for it to count as fun sex. Maybe you've been going down on me for a bit and your turgid friend isn't receiving direct attention so he starts to droop a bit. Maybe you had an intrusive thought about your mother and your body involuntarily shuts down for a second. Maybe your body just got tired of providing all the blood to sustain a perfect raging hard on and it needs a bit of recovery time. There are other things we can do besides ensuring the constant stiffness of your penis. This is not the only point of sex."

6. Take protection seriously

"I don't want to have sex without a condom... being able to relax about STD's and STI's means I can enjoy sex."

7. Manners, please

"So many dudes have used degrading/insulting language without checking in with me first, because they heard it in porn and thought it was sexy. 'Yeah you like that you little sl*t/b*tch/wh*re?' well not anymore my dude. Just be nice to me unless I tell you otherwise!"

8. Communicate while you consummate

"It's okay to ask if you're not sure. Any woman worth having sex with isn't going to kick you out for occasionally asking 'Is this okay?' or 'Does this feel good?' Obviously don't check in like that every single time you move your hands/lips/d*ck, but if you start doing something and her reaction seems difficult to read or you feel a bit anxious about whether she's enjoying it or not, then just ask."

9. Don't rush it

"Give me some time to warm up and enjoy myself before it's all d*ck all the time. Likewise, don't go diving into panties super fast, either. The clothes will come off when I'm comfortable or you get me so horny I must strip."

10. This is most important of all

"There's no 'one-size-fits-all' (haha) thing all women like. Maybe foreplay, but that's so general. I think listening to what women like and encouraging them to give feedback on things that feel good is the best advice for men who want to sexually please women."

Maybe you agree, maybe you disagree. Are there other things you wish men knew about how to sexually satisfy you? Probably. But really, that's one for you to talk about with your partner face-to-face.