Full Breakdown
Shifting Landscape of Sex, Dating and Pleasure
8/25/2026, 10:34:19 PM
Changing Sexual Landscape
Young adults, particularly those in Generation Z, are reported to be having less sex while simultaneously navigating a “sex recession” marked by loneliness and fatigue with dating apps. Kate Moyle, a psychosexual therapist based in London, notes that many social interactions now occur online or virtually, which reshapes how intimacy is formed and discussed.
Optimizing Pleasure vs. Performance
Moyle cautions that the drive to “optimise” pleasure can become counterproductive. She explains that an excessive focus on achieving orgasm may distract from the experience of pleasure itself, turning sexual activity into a performance goal rather than a source of enjoyment. This perspective is echoed in her work with the sexual-wellness brand LELO, where the concept of “orgasmaxxing” is presented as a way to move away from one-size-fits-all approaches and encourage individuals to prioritize personal sensation.
The Orgasm Gap
A 2018 study by Frederick et al. surveyed 52,588 U.S. adults about orgasm frequency in the prior month. The findings reveal that 95 % of heterosexual men reported usually or always orgasming during partnered sex, compared with 65 % of heterosexual women. Among lesbian women, 86 % reported regular orgasms, while 66 % of bisexual women did so. The research suggests that cultural teachings about gender and pleasure, as well as historical medical neglect of female sexuality, contribute to this disparity.
Market Response: LELO’s INA THRUST
LELO’s newest product, the INA THRUST, is designed to counter “jack-rabbit” stimulation styles by emphasizing whole-body pleasure, slower rhythms and emotional connection. The brand positions the device as a tool for users to explore personal sensation without the pressure of performance metrics.
Implications for Sexual Wellness
The convergence of online dating, self-improvement language, and a growing market for individualized pleasure products signals a shift toward more intentional, self-aware sexual experiences. Moyle argues that becoming familiar with one’s own body and reducing self-monitoring may help individuals navigate the evolving intimacy landscape more confidently.
