Indian Sexual Wellness Brands That Should Be On Your Radar

The concept of sexual wellness is one that is still largely taboo in our society. While we’ve managed to get a better understanding of the dangers of unprotected sex, the role that sexual pleasure and intimacy play in discovering one’s own identity and building healthy relationships is rarely acknowledged.

Nobody told us that sexual intimacy and wellness in a relationship starts with prioritising your own pleasure. In fact, the first vibrator was created in the 1800s, but it wasn’t until the 1950s that the product started subtly and discreetly being marketed as a self-pleasuring tool. Initially, the vibrator was used to treat female hysteria, not surprising (but just as disappointing), as women’s sexual health and pleasure were hardly matters of concern for the world at the time.

The truth is that masturbation helps boost self-confidence andself-esteemand is incredibly important in alleviating shame around sexual intimacy. And when we eliminate shame, we can access deeper parts of ourselves and be more vulnerable in relationships. "The dialogue around sex in India is still centred around prevention – of early pregnancies and STIs. While these are important conversations to have, it limits our perception of sex to feelings of fear, anxiety, shame and guilt. Those feelings are isolating. Truly embracing sex means looking at it from a pleasure-first perspective. Whether it’s about couples discussing positions, toys or kinks, or parents being there for their children’s questions, or doctors building the sexual confidence and awareness of patients without bias and judgment,” Tanisha RK, Co-founder and Chief of Social Voice at Sangya Project tells us.

According to Tanisha, prioritising one’s pleasure has more benefits than one, especially in terms of how we show up in relationships.“It’s harder to find joy in sex and intimacy because you’re more likely to do what’s expected of you than ask for or advocate for what you actually like. Prioritising your pleasure doesn’t mean neglecting the pleasure of others.

It may actually make you more compassionate towards your partner’s preferences because you learn to respect just how much their own needs mean to them too,” she says. Not only this, as we speak to other brand owners, it has become increasingly evident that feeling safe in one’s own body and in the company of your partner is you liberates yourself and helps rid yourself of any shame surrounding sexuality and intimacy. For instance, during a chat with Deep Bajaj, Co-founder and CEO of Sirona and also Bleu Condoms mentions “When both partners in a romantic/sexual relationship feel secure and safe, the relationship thrives. Feeling safe emotionally, physically, and psychologically is essential for the overall health and longevity of the relationship. The feeling of safety not only fosters trust and comfort between the partners, it also creates emotional intimacy, strengthening the bond between them.”

In fact, according to certain obstetricians and gynaecologists, masturbation and self-pleasuring can also lead to ahigher sex drive. It seems that connecting with your sexual side can encourage you to engage in intimacy with your partner. Hence, when co-founders Anushka and Sahil Gupta of MyMuse shared with us that “Prioritizing your own pleasure in a romantic or sexual relationship is essential for overall health and connection. It’s about knowing your desires, what makes you feel good, and being open about that with your partner. When both partners prioritize their pleasure, it fosters a deeper emotional, mental, and physical connection. It’s not about selfishness; it’s about balance. By understanding and communicating your needs, you create a space where both partners feel valued and satisfied, which strengthens the relationship,’ we couldn’t help but agree.

Clearly, using protection, pleasuring oneself, and finding other tools such as lubes to create a smoother intimate experience are excellent ways to nurture a relationship. This is why we’ve curated these homegrown sexual wellness brands for you to take a look at and consider as well.

Homegrown Sexual Wellness Brands To Look Out For

Sangya Project

Sanya Project aims to create destigmatised, trauma-informed and kink-affirmative education for its community. You can find a wonderful and wide variety of tools and toys such as dildos, butt plugs, massagers and supplements for sexual wellness which are made in India.

MyMuse

From scented candles, vibrators, and spicy card games to customisable gift boxes, MyMuse has a lot to offer for people who are looking to take their intimacy and sexual pleasure to the next level.

Bleu

If you’re looking for 100% vegan, hypoallergenic, natural latex and fragrance condoms, Bleu Condoms are the perfect option. Helping you practice safe and non-irritable sex, Bleu Condoms is a great way to engage in intimacy while also making a conscious and sustainable choice.

Pee Safe Domina

India’s first women’s condom brand, Pee Safe started as a brand that produced safe methods for women to use the restroom in public. But slowly, their wellness range Domina came into existence, which began producing products such as lubes, relaxing oils and natural latex women’s condoms that can be worn for up to 8 hours.

That Sassy Thing

A new-age, inclusive wellness brand, That Sassy Thing prides itself on creating a phthalates-free sexual lubricant that is infused with plant-based elements like aloe vera, flaxseed and lemon extracts, period cramp care oils and intimate washes. It is also the first sexual wellness brand to provide comprehensive sex-ed masterclasses!