(156) Empowerment in Female Sexual Pleasure Through Online Education: A Thematic Content Analysis of OMGyes

Abstract Introduction Sexual pleasure, particularly female sexual pleasure, is a topic that is heavily stigmatized in many societies. In the US, if sex education is present in secondary schools, it typically emphasizes STD and pregnancy prevention; otherwise, it may only consist of encouraging abstinence prior to marriage or be completely absent. While some young people are privileged in the US to receive sex education consisting of harm reduction (STD and unwanted pregnancy prevention), young people are typically not taught about how to enjoy the process of sex. Research indicates that about 80% of AFAB individuals cannot achieve orgasm from penetrative stimulation alone, a fact many individuals remain unaware of. Without equitable, holistic sex education in the US, this results in many people assigned female at birth (AFAB) lacking knowledge about the complexities of their own sexual pleasure, which can lead to anorgasmia and suboptimal, dissatisfying sexual experiences. OMGYes is a research-based online platform that aims to empower and educate AFAB individuals and their partners with techniques for maximizing female sexual pleasure and optimizing sexual experiences. Objective The purpose of this study is to systematically characterize the content of OMGYes, an online sexual education platform, to identify key themes related to female sexual pleasure, empowerment, and education. The study aimed to explore how research-based online resources address gaps in traditional sex education and promote sexual wellbeing among AFAB individuals. Methods A qualitative thematic content analysis was conducted on the 55 videos comprising the original OMGYes educational module. Each video features AFAB individuals discussing personal experiences and techniques related to sexual pleasure. Videos were systematically coded to identify recurrent themes related to pleasure, empowerment, and sexual learning. The frequency major themes were quantified to provide an overview of the platform’s dominant educational messaging. Results This thematic analysis of the 55 videos in the original OMGYes collection identified several recurrent themes related to female sexual pleasure and empowerment. Most videos (87%) focused on specific techniques and strategies to enhance pleasure and achieve orgasm. A large proportion (73%) emphasized personal empowerment through self-knowledge and exploration of sexual pleasure. Solo sexual exploration through masturbation was discussed in 67% of videos, while 58% highlighted the importance of exploring sexual pleasure in partnered sex with a supportive partner. Nearly half (47%) addressed the process of learning about sexual pleasure later in life, and 38% underscored the role of communication in improving partnered sexual encounters. Additionally, 18% acknowledged the societal stigma surrounding discussions of female sexual pleasure. Conclusions This analysis emphasizes the need for holistic, equitable sex education that destigmatizes sexual pleasure and focuses on empowerment. Study findings also highlight the value of solo exploration through masturbation, in addition to supportive and communicative partnered exploration, to yield more pleasurable sexual experiences. Disclosure No.