During the Potpourri Session at the 24th Annual SMSNA Fall Scientific Meeting today, Dr. Amy Pearlman delved into the evolving landscape of sexual wellness and technology in her presentation titled "Sexual Enhancement Products: What Are They and How Can They Help My Patients?" Dr. Pearlman addressed the historical taboo surrounding "sex toys" and highlighted the shifting terminology towards sexual wellness and sex tech, making these products more accessible to patients and healthcare providers.
The sexual enhancement product industry is experiencing significant growth, but Dr. Pearlman underscored a notable gap in education about sexual health products for clinicians, particularly during medical school and fellowship training. She also referenced functional MRI studies that revealed that even thoughts about sexual enhancement devices could activate pleasure-associated parts of women's brains.
Dr. Pearlman showcased a variety of sexual enhancement devices, ranging from magic wands and hands-free mounted devices to vibratory devices, strokers, sleeves, and external penile prosthetic devices. These devices were presented not only as aids for pleasure but also as potential solutions for individuals dealing with erectile dysfunction, orgasmic disorders, and sperm retrieval.
Looking ahead, Dr. Pearlman highlighted what she sees to be the future of sex tech—wearable devices. As the industry continues to innovate, wearable devices are poised to play a significant role in the realm of sexual enhancement. Dr. Pearlman's presentation emphasized the need for increased education in the medical community regarding sexual health products, acknowledging the potential benefits these technologies can bring to patients' overall well-being.
