Outercourse: sex with surprising benefits

Put simply, outercourse is sex without penetration. But let's find out more about what it is and how it has, in many ways, revolutionised the sex lives of so many people.

Outercourse comes from 'outer', meaning outside, and 'course', short for 'sexual intercourse'. It’s a sexual practice that does not involve any form of penetration, be it vaginal, anal or oral. It’s not as much of a novelty as we might think. Outercourse has been practised for centuries to avoid pregnancy and STIs and to experience pleasure without “losing your virginity” (in the traditional sense of the term).

Why is it that so many couples are rediscovering the joys of this slow and stimulating kind of sex?

What with long working hours and busy days, it’s not unusual for sex, over time, to become just a quickie in the evening. Sometimes this short and sweet kind of sex can hit the spot, but sometimes you’re after something more.

While the pandemic and being stuck in lockdown undeniably left many people feeling anxious and down, there was one positive to being trapped inside with nothing else to do: it gave couples the chance to relax and rediscover the pleasures of slow sex and learn about their bodies.

De-stressing and not rushing to the finish line during sex has widespread sexual benefits. It can improve things like erection problems and premature ejaculation, vaginal lubrication, loss of libido, and difficulty reaching orgasm.

Think of how many couples find themselves in long-distance relationships. What do they do? They find alternative ways to share sexual intimacy and pleasure themselves, including with masturbation. While long-distance relationships aren’t easy, being forced to explore things outside of typical intercourse is incredibly beneficial.

Outercourse can be a kind of sex with heightened levels of care and intimacy, a kind of sex aimed at really discovering bodies, building tension, and prolonging pleasure.

Outercourse is an uninhibited and imaginative form of sex that offers some new discovery each time you try it. Because the focus is away from genital penetration, outercourse is more interested in exploring different senses, erogenous zones, and forms of touch. Outercourse is a sex of exploration, scents and caresses.

Who's a fan of outercourse?

We at panty.com have always been advocates of all-around sexual freedom. While outercourse has helped many people rediscover their sexuality and solve sexual problems stemming from stress, it’s not for everyone.

Some people enjoy the passionate aspect of sex that gets straight to the point or don’t enjoy the slow intimacy of outercourse or having their body being paid such close attention to. We believe, however, that outercourse is an excellent addition to a varied and fulfilling sex life, and that trying it can enhance the other kinds of sex you like to have.

What about you? How well do you know yourself? Panty.com is a great place to explore new kinds of sex and to discover things about your body you never knew before.