Sadomasochism

Sadomasochism, often shortened to S&M or SM, refers to the giving and receiving of pleasure from acts involving the infliction or reception of pain or humiliation. A subset of BDSM, it is typically a consensual sexual practice that involves a power exchange between partners.

The term "sadomasochism" combines two complementary but distinct practices: sadism (deriving sexual pleasure from inflicting pain, punishment, or humiliation on another) and masochism (deriving sexual pleasure from receiving pain, punishment, or humiliation). Individuals may identify as a sadist, a masochist, or both (sadomasochist).

Additional Information

Sadomasochistic practices can range from light pain play (spanking, biting, wax play) to more intense activities (whipping, caning, electrostimulation). It often involves roleplay, with participants taking on complementary but unequal roles, such as a dominant partner (the "top" or sadist) and a submissive partner (the "bottom" or masochist).

As with all BDSM activities, sadomasochism should only be practiced with the informed consent of all parties involved. Participants typically establish safe words and agree upon soft and hard limits. Aftercare, which involves tending to a partner's physical and emotional needs after an intense SM scene, is also considered an important aspect of responsible sadomasochistic practice.