What if we focused on intimate well-being, a source of fulfillment, self-confidence, and simply joy? We had the pleasure of welcoming Anne-Cécile Descaillot, co-founder of the Gapianne platform , with whom we discussed sex education and pleasure on Instagram . Sexual awakening, intimate pleasure, alternative pornography... Here's a recap of this live session in a few key questions.
What if we focused on intimate well-being, a source of fulfillment, self-confidence, and simply joy? We had the pleasure of welcoming Anne-Cécile Descaillot, co-founder of the Gapianne platform , with whom we discussed sex education and pleasure on Instagram . Sexual awakening, intimate pleasure, alternative pornography... Here's a recap of this live session in a few key questions.
What do we learn today in sex education and what is missing?
Today, the topic of sexuality and pleasure remains largely taboo. The clitoris only appeared in a school textbook very recently, just one or two years ago. Lessons that do address these topics are still very focused on the reproductive system , on procreation. Children are taught how to get pregnant and protect themselves from STDs and STIs, but pleasure is not discussed, remaining a significant taboo in our society. In biology classes, the genital system is only represented physiologically ; pleasure organs like the vulva are not shown, and there is absolutely no demonstration of how pleasure is stimulated by the perineum or the prostate, for example.
Why in France is there no platform dedicated to intimate pleasure?
In France, there's a feeling that sexuality is either too medicalized or too "pornographic." Unlike some other countries, we have a reputation as a nation of romance, with the French kiss, for example. Whereas in the United States, Canada, or some Nordic countries, people talk much more openly with their children about sexuality, consent, and body image . This is less ingrained in our culture, even though attitudes are gradually changing.
In France, we still tend to focus on reproduction when discussing sexuality, even though the body is biologically designed to give and receive pleasure . There are as many sexualities as there are individuals, so it is our responsibility to move beyond the patterns and stereotypes perpetuated through generations and to break free from the dominant/submissive relationship that is still far too prevalent today!
How to find out about sexuality and pleasure when you are a teenager?
More and more resources are now available to help young teenagers break free from the stereotypical images of sexuality they learn at school. As a teenager, it's very difficult to broach the subject with family and parents. It's still very taboo, and people are hesitant to talk about it. Fortunately, many initiatives are emerging to help these young people approach sexuality and pleasure in ways other than pornography or sex education classes. The idea is to encourage them to broaden their horizons and explore the realm of possibilities, to freely ask questions of sexologists, and to access appropriate content on platforms like YouTube and TikTok, which they use extensively.
Where is the line between erotica and pornography? Doesn't the excess of images harm the imagination?
When discussing pleasure, it's difficult to ignore the imagination and fantasy. Today, we see that it's possible to watch pornography in alternative ways, for example with the Climax series , which consists of 32 educational videos on female masturbation. We can also mention the mini-series " Libres! " (Free!) available on Arte, created by Ovidie, which dismantles sexual clichés and dictates, as well as the book " Jouissance Club " (Pleasure Club), a veritable sex education manual suitable for everyone.
There is no right or wrong way to fantasize!
How to approach the subject of sexuality with family, friends or with a partner?
In the family, personal and friendly sphere, the subject of sex is still very prohibited. We quickly feel judged, and we tend to turn if the person in front does not have the same ease as us in talking about the subject.
To be able to talk about it freely, communication is key. It's important to try to create an atmosphere of trust , free from judgment, and to be mindful of the words we use. For example, we can express our wants and desires through games. With family or friends, we can create a safe and supportive environment for everyone, limit the number of people present, and share practical information, such as recommending a book or an online initiative.
Discover Gapianne, the first intimate and sexual well-being platform in France
Gapianne 's idea stemmed from the observation that in France, there is no attractive, safe, and reassuring place to find information about intimacy, pleasure, and sexuality. Yet, people want to speak freely, to feel listened to without judgment, and to break down the codes surrounding sexuality, which is still too often labeled as a "pharmacy" or "sex shop."
Gapianne's idea is to offer an advice and information platform , conceived and maintained by professionals, sexologists and experts who speak on different subjects and answer questions.
Gapianne also offers the podcast “Pluriel.le.s”, dedicated to sexual well-being , which you can listen to right here!
The live stream with Anne-Cécile Descaillot can be viewed here.
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