Let's be honest for a moment: bypassing the main course in favour of dessert may seem like a fun way to approach sex, but it ultimately leads to disappointment. Dessert is delicious, but the build-up makes it taste much more sugary. Here's where foreplay comes in—it's the perfect prelude to a memorable sex encounter.

According to Sexologist Dr. Prashant Baspure, foreplay isn't just the cherry on top of a physical connection; it’s essential to creating the kind of intimacy that makes the main event mind-blowing. “Foreplay helps prepare the body and mind for sexual activity by increasing arousal, reducing tension, and boosting physical sensations,” he says. And, let's face it – who doesn’t want their partner extra ready for what's coming next?

Whether you're kissing, teasing, stroking, or saying sweet words or dirty talking, foreplay is about tuning into your partner and enhancing their mind and body. It builds to a gradual burn that intensifies physical pleasure—trust me, it's worth the wait.

Dr. Baspure emphasizes that “the physiological changes, like increased blood flow and lubrication, are necessary for enjoyable sex.” In simple terms: if you want to avoid awkward moments and uncomfortable friction, start slow. It’s a win-win for both of you, trust me I know.

Foreplay is more than just physical; it's also about connection. Investigating what makes your partner feel attracted to you shows concern and desire. It's the glue that binds the bedroom experience together, making you appreciate every moment of the voyage rather than just concentrating on reaching the finish line.

Foreplay, sex, pleasure, sexual activity, kissing, stroking, teasing — Image: Pexele

Here's a little secret: a lot of people, particularly women, can take longer than men to reach their peak arousal. When foreplay is done well, it guarantees that both parties are feeling the same way. Consider it as synchronising your inner rhythms so that, by the time things get hot, you're both in sync. Without it, you run the danger of experiencing a harshness that can make the experience unsatisfactory.

This is where it gets really exciting: your brain releases a variety of feel-good hormones, including dopamine and oxytocin, when you're having foreplay. These hormones enhance physical pleasure in addition to strengthening your sense of connection to your companion. Thus, the longer you warm up, the more of these chemicals cause your body to feel pleasurable. Hey, it's science!

Dr. Baspure claims that foreplay lessens worry as well, enhancing your present-moment comfort and self-assurance. A lengthy, intense foreplay session might help dispel whatever apprehension you may have had before engaging in sexual activity.

Thus, the next time you're ready to jump into bed, gently apply a little pressure. Because "the more time you invest in foreplay, the greater the overall satisfaction of the sexual experience," according to Dr. Prashant Baspure, savour the moment.

Remember, it’s not just about the destination – it’s about enjoying the ride.

How to become an expert at foreplay to have better sex

How to last longer in bed? Experts share advice on premature ejaculation

No-gos during sex: Avoid these 5 passion killers in the bedroom

How to sensitively ask your long-term partner for more sex