These hormones play an important role in BDSM
“These hormones play an important role in BDSM” was written for BDSMforyou.nl by Mistress Moriah.
Perhaps the dominant thinks he plays the most important role in BDSM, but unfortunately, that’s not the case. And if the sub now thinks it’s him, then I have to disappoint him as well. It is actually the hormones that play an important role in BDSM – simply those chemicals that our bodies produce on their own. Hormones are chemical messengers released into the bloodstream by endocrine glands. Incidentally, as a dominant, you can certainly make good use of these chemicals.
The Role of Hormones in BDSM
In BDSM, hormones play a very important role in heightening the intensity and the experience of the activities. Hormones such as adrenaline and endorphins are often released in increased amounts during BDSM play, contributing to the so-called “high” or euphoria that one may experience (subspace). Adrenaline increases alertness and physical strength, which can be useful in more intense play scenarios. Endorphins act as a natural painkiller, which can help in tolerating pain or discomfort during certain BDSM moments.
Dopamine, a reward hormone, also plays an important role. It is released during pleasurable activities, creating feelings of pleasure and satisfaction that make BDSM play appealing to some. Oxytocin, known as the “cuddle hormone,” can strengthen feelings of connection and trust between partners, which is important for a safe and satisfying BDSM experience.
All these hormonal responses can contribute to the psychological appeal of BDSM, where the physical and emotional intensity of the activities influences the chemical balance in the brain, leading to a unique and often intense experience. That’s why we’re focusing on all those specific chemicals!
Endocrine glands
Our endocrine glands produce hormones in response to sensory stimuli such as sight, touch, hearing, taste, and smell. This hormone production triggers a chain reaction in which the increase of one hormone stimulates the production of another. This creates a complex interaction in which our actions and experiences are influenced by our hormones, while we in turn influence these hormones.
During BDSM, where physical and psychological boundaries are explored, hormones can trigger intense reactions. Manipulating these hormonal reactions can add fascinating elements to BDSM play. But which hormones are we talking about?
Pheromones
Pheromones are chemical signals secreted by many animals and some plants to communicate with others of the same species. In animals, these signals often influence behaviors related to reproduction, territory marking, and recognizing family members. In humans, the role of pheromones is less clearly defined. We don’t consciously notice them much, but subconsciously, the message does get through.
Adrenaline
Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, is released in stressful situations. It activates the “fight-or-flight” response, leading to an increased heart rate, dilation of the airways, and increased blood flow to the muscles, thereby preparing the body for action. Our body thus becomes stronger and faster.
Testosterone
Testosterone is known as a sex hormone and is an important male sex hormone. It influences muscle mass, bone density, libido, and plays a role in sperm production. When we feel horny, our bodies produce testosterone. Men and women with high testosterone levels are more sexually active. In men, this manifests as an erection and the production of pre-ejaculate; in women, the vagina becomes moist, and the labia and clitoris receive increased blood flow.
Preparations for BDSM play, such as being restrained, laying out materials, and so on, can have an arousing effect due to the presence of this hormone prior to the actual play.
Dopamine
Dopamine is known as the “feel-good” hormone, which stimulates feelings of pleasure and satisfaction in response to certain stimuli. We sometimes call it the “love chemical” because our brains produce it when we’re in love. It makes us feel good immediately. However, it can also be accompanied by less positive effects such as heart palpitations and insomnia.
Perhaps there is no romantic love between sub and dominant within BDSM, but the focus on and worship of the dominant is often present. This may relate to the person, but it can also stem from the desire for the actions the dominant can perform. This worship also triggers the production of dopamine.
Serotonin
The production of dopamine actually lowers serotonin levels. Serotonin is often associated with feelings of well-being and happiness and is important for overall emotional balance and mental health. When there is a deficiency, we fall back into compulsive behavior and a narrowing of our perspective. Thus, complete focus on the dominant.
Melatonin
Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain and plays a key role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle. It is released in higher concentrations at night. Melatonin acts as a kind of biological clock.
Depriving the body of sight (mask, blindfold) confuses it, causing it to enter a “dazed” state, similar to a body preparing for sleep.
Vasopressin
Vasopressin is a hormone produced by the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland. Among other things, it plays a role in social behavior and bonding. The substance is primarily produced immediately after orgasm in men. Because of this substance, the person who has climaxed has a greater need for hugs and kind words.
Oxytocin
In women, it is the substance oxytocin that influences the feeling of attachment. Oxytocin, often called the “cuddle hormone,” is involved in childbirth, breastfeeding, and strengthening social bonds and trust. It is produced in the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland, and plays an important role in human social interactions and relationships.
By utilizing this (through frequent caressing of the sub and skin contact), boundaries can be pushed. Anxiety will decrease as a result. To further intensify the entire process, you could alternate gentle caresses with painful stimuli. This puts the sub into a sort of push-pull mode, causing them to no longer know what is painful or pleasurable.
Endorphins
Endorphins are natural painkillers and “feel-good” hormones. They help reduce pain and stress and promote feelings of euphoria and well-being; we often experience them during activities such as exercise, laughter, and eating certain foods. This hormone makes you feel better; it provides a kind of high comparable to hard drugs like opium, but produced by the body itself.
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Text: Mistress Moriah
Image: 123rf.com
