The Beatles said it best: "All you need is love." But exactly where do we feel that love throughout our bodies? There's an obvious answer, but sometimes matters of the heart extend to other areas we might not even be aware of. 

But that's not to say we aren't attuned to the emotion: we've thoroughly assessed the five love languages, uncovered how long it takes people to fall in love, and debated when to drop said L-bomb. But what's going on with the physical sensations? Here's what's really happening inside, according to a new study from Aalto University in Finland.   

Where do we feel different types of love in our bodies?

Researchers sought to uncover where we can feel love, but it's a bit more exact than you might imagine. According to the findings, there are 27 different types of love—platonic, romantic, sexual, a love of nature, religious love, etc. Those surveyed were asked where they felt these various types of emotions and how deeply. 

We'll laser-focus on the ones you're probably most curious about: romantic and sexual love. According to the research, romantic love is felt in the head, heart, and stomach, and sexual love is felt in the groin. (Not a shock.) Although the response to sexual love was expected, there's a tidbit that caught us off guard regarding romantic love...

An interesting (and unexpected) finding about love

Oftentimes when we're wrapped up in a new relationship and just a little too wound up, bordering on delulu, we're told to act with our heads instead of our hearts. We need to snap out of it and be rational. But romantic love does require us to use our brains. So the next time your friends badger you about getting too caught up in that new Hinge match, you can tell them your head's on straight.  

Per the findings: "Interestingly, all love types were reported to 'feel' strongly in the head. Another body area implicated strongly in most love types is chest, but this embodiment and its extent progressively decreases depending on the love type."

When romantic love—or any type of passion for that matter—really heats up, it's a full-body experience. 

"True love, love for life and passionate love were felt in the whole body," the study further uncovered. 

If you have love on the brain (get it?!) check out our favorite expert-backed first date tips, and if you're craving something steamy, these sex tips from the pros will provide guidance. Should you want to learn more about how we feel all types of love, you can read the study in full.

Though some of us insist on tucking in barefoot, wearing socks to bed might have its benefits when it comes to frisky activities. Yes, folks, apparently the key to a successful orgasm starts in your toes before it crinkles your nose. (Though the best sex toys will also do the trick.) 

Couples are always looking for ways to get to the grand finale quicker and want to make it more explosive when they do, even though sexologists insist orgasms don't make or break an intimate experience. But nevertheless, since they are sought-after anyway, might as well make the sensation a little stronger—especially considering all you need is a pair of socks. 

Does wearing socks to bed help your chances of orgasming?

According to researchers at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands, wearing socks to bed—*clean* socks—can help in the sex department. It's all about circulation. If you keep your toesies nice and toasty while you snooze, your blood flow won't be reduced, and *that* could put a damper on the O. When you decide to hit the hay and bundle up, you'll wake up knowing morning sex is on the table...before the pancakes.

Per the study, 80% of couples who wore socks to bed were able to achieve orgasm as compared to 50% of couples who struggled to do so after not wearing socks. Temperature is a simple factor that can make all the difference, so it shouldn't be overlooked.

"[It] will help regulate the warm temperature in your feet as well as relax the blood vessels which tend to constrict when you’re cold," Charlotte Johnson, sex expert at Mega Pleasure previously told us. "It has been suggested that socks can also enhance an orgasm because when blood circulation increases, it can play a part in increasing the chances of an orgasm."

As for the taboo of wearing socks during sex? We'll leave that up to you. And while we're on the topic of temperature, read up on sexperts' best winter sex tips that will keep things hot and steamy even when things outside feel frigid. 

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So, you forgot to put on your socks before bed. For your convenience, we've rounded up a few top-notch pleasure gadgets that are also helpful when it comes to memorable finales in the bedroom. 

What does the "ankles as earrings" trend have to do with pleasure? If you ask TikTok users, quite a lot. FYPs are flooded with tips of the sexy variety, but needless to say, not all of the how-to's are encouraged. (You can read all about the viral TikTok sex hacks that actually work, according to the professionals.) However, there's something about this acrobatic-sounding move that's getting all the likes on social media.

If you're looking to take sexologists' advice and spruce up your intimate moments this fall, or if you're waiting for that uber-trendy unicorn vibrator and rose sex toy (another TikTok favorite) to be delivered, here's the 'ankles as earrings' scoop to catch up on while you wait. 

What is the 'ankles as earrings' sex position?

Like TikTok's highly-praised pillow sex trick, the ankles as earrings move is meant to maximize pleasure with deeper penetration. Do be mindful that this might take a few times to attempt, and while it might not be considered one of the most dangerous sex positions out there, note that flexibility will be required. You should have a candid conversation with your partner regarding comfort levels before proceeding. 

Now that we've gotten the housekeeping out of the way, let's jump to specifics: getting down to business. The receiving partner should lie in a missionary position with their legs stretched out in the air and position their feet toward their significant other's ears. Then, Partner B will position themselves to penetrate the other, ensuring that the feet are near the earlobes. (Now you see how it got the name.) Should the receiving partner want a little extra sensation, Partner B can consider lifting up their legs for a deeper penetration. 

In a sense, this is a twist on missionary with a few bells and whistles. Though sexologists have insisted that orgasms shouldn't be the main focus of a sexual experience, this move does propel partners toward the finish line quickly, per TikTok recs. The move's claim to fame is that all the magic happens in less than five minutes, but again, sexologists warn couples to get rid of the stopwatches and go by their own methods.

An alternative to the 'ankles as earrings' move

If the sensation sounds intriguing, you can get similar results with the famous pillow sex tip, which requires the receiving partner to keep their legs down and slide a pillow underneath their hips for a deeper feeling. 

According to Dr. Janet Brito, an AASECT-certified sex therapist and supervisor at Lovehoney, this method "makes penetrative sex more comfortable [and] easier to experiment with various angles." Consider it a jumping-off point if you don't want to start off with the super-agile move right away. 

For more timely ways to spice things up in the bedroom, have a look at sexperts' favorite Halloween sex positions for a scary good time.

The pumpkin spice sex position is proof that the flavor of the fall has managed to seep its way into all aspects of our lives, even our most intimate ones.

Now that the autumnal equinox has officially hit and sexologists have revealed fall sex tips to help couples enjoy the pleasures of the season, perhaps that "spice" will come in handy elsewhere. If you're looking for something creative that embraces autumn in all of its glory—we're not partial to seasons here—we'll tell you everything you need to know. 

What is the pumpkin spice sex position?

Though not a new term, the pumpkin spice sex position has reemerged as a topic of interest now that sweater weather's on the horizon, even though you're encouraged to go sweater-less for the activity. In 2020, just after the height of the pandemic, Ann Summers coined the term for the couples who were holed up at home but wanted to embrace the most of the season. It was a way to keep close and cozy, and it certainly delivers. 

Now that you're intrigued by the more intimate PSLs available, how do you do it? Consider the maneuver essentially like the cowgirl sex position, but with a twist, according to Laura Whittaker, a spokesperson for the brand. 

"Take control of your partner by straddling them and outstretching your legs on either side of them, then take hold of their shoulders as they lay back, helping keep you in the driving seat and well in control," she said. 

Though it's fairly straightforward—which is a good thing, considering there are plenty of dangerous sex positions that could lead to a few mishaps—it's beloved particularly because when rocking together, the clitoris will be well stimulated. Where does the pumpkin spice come into play, exactly? We're not entirely sure, frankly, but hey, 'tis the season! 

Should you be interested in even more ways to spice things up, the sexperts over at Condoms.uk have uncovered spooky-good sex moves between the sheets that will make Halloween a night for the (spell) books. While the likes of the Zombie Apocalypse are manageable, do note that the Ghost Rider and the Haunted House are among the more challenging!

If mornings feel challenging, perhaps a buzzy alarm clock vibrator will make 6am seem a little less onerous. While we can't guarantee this pleasure gadget will help get you out of bad faster—in fact, it'll probably make you feel inclined to steal a few more minutes—it is certainly a...unique way to start the day.  

While we appreciate the ingenuity of sex toy jewelry and can't quite get over the cute factor of the unicorn sex toy, we must give the Magic Umi Wake Up Vibe, its proper name, credit for being such a clever device. Now, who's ready to get up with the birds?

Yes, there's *really* an alarm clock vibrator out there

The Magic Umi Wake Up Vibe is an app-controlled, waterproof, rechargeable, and dual-mode device that will certainly break up that REM cycle. According to its description on Babeland, the trinket is self-explanatory: "Set the time you want on the app, and this wearable vibe will wake you up with blissful blended vibrations to the clit and G spot." There are even game and music controls. Talk about efficiency! Plus, you can score this item for 30% off until the end of September as part of Babeland's 30th anniversary sale. 

Shop the rest of the Babeland sex toy sale

Celebrating the big 3-0 is an occasion. To honor its milestone birthday, Babeland is offering a variety of items at 30% off, but not for much longer. Shoppers will only have until the end of September to get discounted items. Set a time on the alarm clock vibrator if you need a reminder!

"The milestone not only signifies three decades of putting female pleasure on the forefront but also reflects the revolving landscape of sexual wellness, and in fact, the world at large since the company's inception," says a spokesperson for Babeland.

Here are a few other notable discounted items, if you feel like splurging. 

Speaking of the end of September, check out these fall sex tips from the experts to keep your season extra hot. 

Sex toy jewelry is a tantalizing way to accessorize. What might seem like a simple necklace or bracelet actually has twofold capabilities, so don't underestimate the power of your trinkets!

As of late, viral pleasure gadgets, like the rose vibrator, have taken over TikTok. Meanwhile, people have confused the unicorn sex toy for a home decor statement piece. The self-pleasure space is getting more creative by the minute, but these discreet jewelry numbers have really caught shoppers' eyes. 

Here are some of our favorite "I can't believe that's a vibrator" pieces. (Yes, you'll have to look closely!)

Sex toy jewelry to add to your collection

Jewelry box or nightstand? It's a tough call. If you fancy a sleek yet simple statement necklace or a chunky ring—which are really some of the best sex toys on shelves, in actuality—we've got you covered.

Once you've finished up your shopping spree and made room in your jewelry box, be sure to have a look at our guide to solo sex techniques, straight from sexologists. According to Ness Cooper, it's crucial to get to know yourself well without a partner...but an accessory will do!

"I think what’s most important is to focus on spending time with yourself and get to know your body," she previously told My Imperfect Life. "Get yourself in a relaxed state and become aware of the sensations going through your body."

And for more ways to up the ante, jewelry or not, the pros' fall sex tips will help ensure a spicy season ahead. Enjoy!

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We've rounded up other subtle yet powerful tools that promise to get heart races going and create a sensual experience. Now, they're not to be worn alongside your capsule wardrobe staples—unless you're feeling particularly daring—but we have a feeling these pieces will do nicely in your collection anyway!

As Maeve and Otis' relationship takes center stage in Sex Education season 4 (erm, what's the deal with Sex Ed season 5 though?!), you might now be wondering—is Emma Mackey dating anyone IRL?

It's safe to say the actress has been having one hell of a year, what with starring in Greta Gerwig's Barbie movie, as "Physicist Barbie" and bidding farewell to Moordale High. But it's not just in the career department that she's coming up aces it seems, as Emma—despite being very private about her love life—is thought to have a new beau.

So, for anyone who missed it, here's all the intel on Emma Mackey's boyfriend sitch, plus a recap of her dating history in general...

Who is Emma Mackey dating?

So, is Emma Mackey dating anyone right now? The answer is yes, she sure is! Emma Mackey is in a relationship with filmmaker and photographer, Martin Aleman—with whom she attended the 2022 Bafta Awards (as per Bustle), where she landed the EE’s Rising Star Award.

Along with their cute red carpet debut, Martin also took the opportunity to celebrate his partner, taking to Instagram to share a snap of Emma receiving her award with the caption, "My Love," on his Stories.

The latest update we received on the couple came our way on March 2, 2023, after the pair were papped attending the Cabaret gala night at the Playhouse Theatre in London.

It's unclear when exactly the pair got together or how long they've been dating though and that's unlike to change anytime soon, as Emma is very private about her life off-screen.

In fact, she told Elle in 2021 after deleting her Instagram account: "I think it just doesn’t correlate with who I am. I don’t really see why [the world should follow] someone like me, who just wants a simple life, which is hilarious because I don’t think I’ve chosen the right job for it."

Emma Mackey dating history: who has she been linked to?

Like with Asa Butterfield's girlfriend sitch, not a ton is known about Emma's dating history as she likes to keep her love life (and private life, in general) out of the spotlight.

Before her relationship with Martin though, Emma was previously linked to actor Dan Whitlam, with their pair making their relationship official on Instagram in 2018. The pair were then spotted out together a number of times, with Emma making a few more appearances over on Dan's Instagram but they eventually split—though it's not known exactly when they parted ways.

After finally receiving the answer to whether Otis and Maeve are endgame in Sex Education season 4, you might find yourself wondering about Asa Butterfield's girlfriend sitch IRL.

Now don't worry—for those who haven't yet finished the new season—we're not going to spoil whether Moordale High's own Ross and Rachel end up together. Instead, we're here to dish on Asa's love life outside of the Netflix show, namely his current relationship status.

So, is there an Asa Butterfield girlfriend in the picture or is he single? Here's everything we've sussed out...

Who is Asa Butterfield's girlfriend?

So, is Otis Milburn, aka Asa Butterfield dating anyone right now? In short, no the 26-year-old is reportedly single.

That being said though, he has previously been one half of a very juicy dating rumor, alongside a fellow castmate. Yep, back in 2021, when Otis and Ruby (Mimi Keene) struck up their unlikely relationship in Sex Education season 3, fans were convinced that something might have been going on off-screen too. 

Alas though, this seemed to be a bit of wishful thinking as nothing came of the rumors, nor did Asa or Mimi give any indication that their relationship was anything other than platonic...In other slightly unrelated news though, Mimi Keene's makeup routine has just dropped and we're obsessed.

As for Asa's love life in general, the actor has previously implied that he'll be keeping those details private, adding in an interview with GQ when asked if he wants to clue fans in on his single status: "No, I want to keep them guessing." So, there you have it, even if there was some Asa girlfriend news, he probably wouldn't tell us anyway...

Asa Butterfield dating history: who has he been linked to previously?

We're afraid Asa Butterfield's dating history is similarly elusive. As the Hugo star prefers to keep his relationships under wraps, there's not a ton of info out there on his past dalliances—apart from his relationship with Yellowjackets actress Ella Purnell.

According to Elle, Asa dated his Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children co-star, Ella back in 2015, though it's believed they split in 2016. 

While 1989 (Taylor's Version) continues to dominate our thoughts, along with all our manifestations for a 'Style' ft Harry Styles, these latest Taylor Swift dating rumors have rather piqued our interest...

As our fellow Swifties will know, heartbreak descended through the fandom in April 2023 after news broke that Taylor and her boyfriend of six years, Joe Alwyn had split.  And post-breakup, the drama and speculation did not let up, with reports that Taylor and Matty Healy were an item in May, to these latest Travis Kelce rumors.

So, the question is...are Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce actually dating? Here's everything we know about that blossoming sitch, plus a recap of Taylor's past lover[s].

Who is Taylor Swift dating now?

So, who is Taylor Swift dating now? As mentioned, following her split from Joe Alwyn in April, Taylor has been linked to a few names but no dating rumors have been quite so compelling as this one, involving a certain Kansas City Chiefs player...

Are Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce dating?

Now, while neither Taylor nor Travis have officially confirmed anything, the internet is convinced that something is going on between them, especially after Taylor was spotted cheering him on Sunday, September 24, 2023.

The singer was seen celebrating alongside his mom, Donna Kelce in Travis' suit as Kansas City beat the Chicago Bears at Arrowhead Stadium. They were then subsequently spied leaving the locker room together and driving away—literally into the sunset. See for yourself...

As for when these dating rumors first began, the pair were seemingly first linked in July of this year after Travis shared on his podcast New Heights—alongside his brother Jason Kelce—how he went to her ERA's show in Kansas with the hopes of giving her a friendship bracelet with his number on it.

He said: "I was disappointed that she doesn't talk before or after her shows because she has to save her voice for the 44 songs that she sings. So I was a little butt-hurt I didn't get to hand her one of the bracelets I made for her," adding that it had his number on it...

Jason then quipped, "Your number as in 87 or your phone number?"

To which Travis replied: "You know which one."

Travis then appeared on the Pat McAfee Show and addressed the whole Taylor saga, saying: "It's life, baby. I threw it out there, I threw the ball in her court and I told her 'I've seen you rock the stage in Arrowhead (Stadium), you might have to come see me rock the stage in Arrowhead and see which one is a little more lit'. We'll see what happens in the near future."

And as mentioned, it seems Taylor took him up on his invitation and indeed attended his game on September 24, cheering him on alongside his mom, before then leaving the stadium with him...

Of course, Taylor and Travis haven't defined their relationship yet but this recent sighting has definitely got fans talking...

And, in case you were wondering about Taylor's recent dating history, 2023 has seen a few developments in that department...

Taylor Swift and Joe Alwyn

*cry*! After six years of dating (and countless love songs and adorable sightings) it was reported that Taylor Swift and Joe Alwyn had gone their separate ways in April 2023.

And for any fans in need of a quick recap of their relationship (and we mean quick, because we can talk about this all day), it's thought the pair initially met at the 2016 Met Gala, before rumors started gaining traction a year later (in May 2017) that they were dating. In the months following, they were papped together a number of times and teased fans with a few Instagram posts from very similar locations.

Then in October 2017, Taylor reportedly confirmed to fans that her Reputation track Gorgeous was indeed about Joe (as per Glamour). A year later in September 2018, the actor himself, also briefly addressed the relationship to British Vogue, saying: "I’m aware people want to know about that side of things. I think we have been successfully very private and that has now sunk in for people…but I really prefer to talk about work."

This was then followed by two years of brief IG interactions, sightings galore and cryptic interview mentions before the Lover album came our way. And let's just say, the inspiration behind Lover is about the worst-kept secret ever and no lyric went un-analyzed by fans. 

Taylor's album Folklore sparked a similar frenzy in 2020, as did Evermore, especially after Taylor revealed that Joe helped write a few tracks, under the pseudonym, William Bowery. 

Then, after two years of what appeared to be relationship bliss, breakup reports rocked the world in April 2023, with Entertainment Tonight reporting their split was amicable and 'not dramatic.'

Detailing the reason behind their relationshop breakdown, a source later claimed to People that Joe, "struggled with Taylor's level of fame and the attention from the public," adding: "The differences in their personalities have also become harder to ignore after years together. They've grown apart.”

Taylor Swift and Matty Healy

Following her shock split from Joe, Taylor was linked to The 1975's frontman Matty Healy in May 2023. Rumors first started swirling after Matty's attendance at one of Taylor's ERAs shows in Nashville before visual confirmation of something going on between them came our way on May 11—with the pair getting snapped holding hands while out to dinner in NYC. 

The rumored relationship did not go down too well with fans however, with many concerned over Matty Healy's history of problematic comments. By July 2023 though, whatever was going on between them (though bear in mind neither ever confirmed anything) seemed to have fizzled out. 

Makeup bag or nightstand? The lipstick sex toy might *seem* like a tube of your tried-and-true shade—a Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk dupe, perhaps?—but in reality, it's a nifty pleasure gadget that falls under the guise of cosmetics. Sneaky! 

Given that sexologists are encouraging experimentation wholeheartedly at the moment, perhaps it's time to have a look at these creative offerings. Between the unicorn vibrator, the snail sex toy and everything in between, it's clear that there are plenty of inventive sex toys to peruse. 

That being said, allow us to give you the scoop on the crowdpleasing, travel-friendly lipstick vibrator.

Shop the lipstick sex toy on Lovehoney

Pucker up! The Lovehoney Oh! Kiss Me Lipstick Vibrator looks like a regular 'ole tube of something you would pick up at Sephora or Ulta, and that's the beauty of it. 

Perfect for discreet storage and a compact travel companion, the waterproof gadget boasts 10 powerful single-speed vibrations and it's easy to use. It might be a bit louder than you expected, but no one in the vicinity will have to reach for earplugs. And at the price point, it's the perfect bang for your buck. The Oh! Kiss Me vibe more than warrants a spot in your carry-on luggage! 

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If you're in search of other suit-case friendly companions that are tiny but mighty, there are a few options you can turn to. Have a look at goodies that sport similar features and functions. 

Research revealed that women's most intense orgasms come from a solo session, so if you feel on the fence about the lipstick, this is your chance to reconsider. While you're at it, if you're planning to bring a partner into the mix, sexologists are all for creative fall sex ideas, so check 'em out. No pumpkin spice latte is required while reading, but definitely encouraged! 

Sex Education season 4, the final hoorah, is upon us, and fans have plenty to look forward to (including a Dan Levy cameo!). Will Maeve and Otis get together at long last? Who is the father of Jean's baby, and how is Otis adjusting to brotherhood so late in life? Plus, what happens when he ventures to Cavendish College and learns he's not the only student sexpert on campus?

“His newfound confidence gets shaken quite quickly, and he has to grapple with feeling like he’s not center stage in different aspects of his life," executive producer Laurie Nunn told Netflix Tudum. 

There will certainly be some growing pains along the way, and it seems the teen has trouble finding his footing in this new chapter, not so unlike changes we've personally experienced growing up and coming into our own.

“Otis is 17 and he doesn’t always get things right," Nunn added. "That’s also part of his journey in this season in terms of figuring out how to treat people."

Regarding the show's premise, what does it get right about intimacy? Is Jane the invaluable sex source we believe her to be, and are these characters as authentic as they are lovable? Sexperts share their insight on what works about the show. 

What does 'Sex Education' get right about sex?

According to extensive research from EllaOne, sexperts are in agreement that the Netflix series is not only binge-worthy but accurate in terms of all that it represents.

1. It's inclusive

Otis is joined by a cast of characters that are all different, whether it be gender, race, sexual identity, abilities, etc. Everyone gets representation and an honest one free of stigma.  

“It’s great to see LGBTQI characters, even adorable teenage cosplay fetishists, getting screen time and not just appearing as 'token' characters,” sex and intimacy counselor Marcy Brink told EllaOne.

What's more, Sex Education flips the script and chooses to empower these characters instead of making them victims.  

"The characters break the boundaries of existing and repressive stereotypes and are given a platform to share their unique stories while holding onto their multifaceted identities," sensual intimacy coach Oli Lipski added in agreement. 

2. It goes beyond traditional education

In most cases, discussions about sex are often just a biology lesson, especially when the topic is introduced to teens. Per EllaOne, a 2019 survey uncovered that participants ages 18-35 wished that their intimacy overview covered more areas. Nearly 50% of those who participated wanted to know more about the emotions behind the act. Additionally, 40% of those who participated didn't learn about sexual pleasure and 30% wish consent was something that was more widely discussed.

It seems the show does a much more thorough job of covering intimacy from all viewpoints as opposed to IRL sex ed. Plus, we get viewpoints from a wide cast of characters. 

Sex Education does a fantastic job of showing the ups and downs, ins and outs, excitement and frustration of being a sexually awakened human," said somatic sex educator Amy McFarling.

3. It misses the mark on *one* thing, though

Though Sex Education is clearly widely revered, it doesn't quite hone in on abstinence, which is a reality for plenty of teens all over the world. 

“Although there are a plethora of real-life aspects that appear throughout the series, one aspect that does not feature much in the show is the choice to delay having sex,” says PJ Livett, the founder of rePHRASE. “This is also a valid decision that should be presented to young people. The show perhaps misses a trick when it comes to representing the lived experiences of teens, by assuming that all teens want to be sexually active."

4. Yes, Jean Milburn knows what she's doing

Yes, Jean accurately portrays what a sex therapist does on a daily basis, whether it comes to how she approaches sensitive topics with her clients, her son, and herself. She makes the topic accessible for everyone and less taboo. 

“I think Jean Milburn’s character is great because she models how to talk frankly about sexuality,” Marcy Brink said. “My daughter once asked me, “Mom, isn’t it embarrassing to talk about sex?” I told her it was, even for us sex therapists, but the benefits of good, open communication are worth a little blushing. And blushing is a sign of vitality, so why not blush a little?”

Catch the EllaOne findings in full before you binge the new season. Sex Education season 4 hits Netflix on Thursday, September 21.

Everyone wants what Sally Albright is having, but many women fake orgasms just the way she does over lunch at Katz's. But why? Given that experimentation is on the rise in the bedroom—you did see the list of every state's favorite sex positions, right?—you'd think that both partners are in search of something authentic. 

While sexologists across the field have concurred that orgasms aren't the be-all, end-all of an intimate encounter, a new study has pinpointed the overwhelming culprit that puts an early kibosh on a good time. Honestly, we're a bit surprised we hadn't thought of it before...

This is the #1 reason why women fake orgasms, says study:

Perhaps it's boredom. Or overthinking could be to blame. The sex position might be uncomfortable or, heck, even dangerous, and the lighting in the room might not be right. (Lights on or lights off?) 

The study reveals that there are a variety of factors that cause partners to fake orgasm—women are more likely to do so than men, FYI—but atop the list at a staggering 40% is a partner's bad breath. 

Yes, per Innerbody's September 2023 study, it seems the most common roadblock is one that is the most overlooked. Though it's easy to get wrapped up in the moment, some natural fragrances are just too pungent to ignore.

More about the fake orgasm study:

The study aimed to uncover the orgasm gap and what exactly is happening in bed across genders and generations. Allegedly, women are more likely to orgasm from masturbation and in same-sex couples, but what is it exactly that gets them most aroused with a partner?

"Women are more likely to orgasm if deep kissing, manual genital stimulation, or oral sex (in addition to vaginal intercourse) are part of their sexual experience," the study says. 

With that in mind, perhaps you'll want to have a look at our tried-and-tested list of best sex toys for couples or ways to reset your sex life. Though you're likely paying attention to your sexual hygiene—as you should—don't forget about those dental needs, too. A little Listerine could go a long way!

The most dangerous sex positions are likely to raise red flags and cause a few, um, sensitive injuries along the way. Considering creativity has been revered in the bedroom as of late—allow each state's favorite sex positions to act as proof—this news might seem dire. 

Yes, sex feels like a workout every once in a while, but the thought of sustaining similar wounds to that of an NFL offensive line isn't exactly what couples had hoped for from their bedroom activities. So, what maneuvers are most susceptible to aches and pains? According to a new study, there are three potential hazards. Let's dive into the findings. 

What are the most dangerous sex positions?

A new study from the wellness brand Arcwave revealed that 25- to 35-year-olds were most likely to sustain sex injuries during passionate moments. The key culprits? You might be a bit surprised: 

• Doggy Style 
• Missionary
• 69ing

Considering there are far more elaborate concoctions out there—take the pretzel dip sex position, for example—you'd think these go-tos wouldn't be so problematic. Then you have the recently rediscovered blooming orchid gaining traction, and it's no bargain for the knees. 

Yet somehow, it's the tried-and-true moves that seem to be causing bumps and bruises, a.k.a. "the most common type of sex injury." Other, more serious effects included vaginal tears, broken penises and even allergic reactions, according to Arcwave's findings.

However, other professionals in the sex and wellness field have uncovered different insights about what positions can be considered the most "dangerous." UK-based surgeon Dr. Karan Raj of TikTok fame, with over 5 million followers, says that reverse cowgirl is the riskiest move because it has the potential for a person's penis to be crushed by their partner's pelvic bones, per The New York Post. This Wild West style is apparently responsible for 50% of penile fractures. Yikes!

Per Men's Health, things can become risky for gentlemen when standing, as this is also likely to lead to penile fractures should their legs give out on stamina. And let's not forget, we're not even taking STIs and the like into consideration at this point. Essentially, anything can seem dangerous if taken too far. (With that in mind, check out some of our favorite sexual health gadgets and gear below!)

How to stay safe while exploring sex positions:

There's no guarantee what will work for you and your partner. What might feel like bliss to you and your significant other could be torture to another pair, depending on many factors like ability, overall health, etc. 

The necessary move, first and foremost, is to talk to your partner about needs, limitations, and consent. Honesty is the only way in which you will be able to enjoy the experience and stay safe. Should you need to rely on a few accessories to help make the experience more pleasurable, go right ahead.

Do orgasms help productivity? A new study suggests that "more orgasms would make for a cost-effective way to stimulate the economy" and Lelo, the sexual wellness brand behind the research, isn't kidding. 

Not to replace brainstorming sessions or pitch meetings, orgasms can seemingly help make things more efficient in the professional department (but not necessarily while at said professional department). Who knew?! If this fusion of work and play seems...interesting, we'll catch you up on the study's details.

Do orgasms help productivity? What Lelo's study says

Per Lelo's findings, what happens between the sheets can affect how we behave in the cubicle. (Is that why WFH sex has been on the rise?) Orgasms in general offer a mood boost that can transcend into various aspects of our day-to-day. 

According to those surveyed, here's what they said about the correlation between their sex lives and work days:

• 60% of respondents noted increased productivity when they are having regular orgasms 
• Specifically, 84% of Americans shared that they were more relaxed and less stressed after having an orgasms

If you're looking to crank out Excel sheets and breeze through calls effortlessly, perhaps your O from the previous night's activities can put you in a stress-free state of mind. (And should you want to add to your toy collection, these goodies promise satisfying results. Psst: here's how to clean your sex toys, according to experts.)

What is Lelo doing about these findings?

We've learned that masturbation has phenomenal skincare benefits and self-love has led to women's most intense orgasms. Now that we can add an increased work drive to the mix, it seems the Big O is unstoppable. 

In honor of the findings, Lelo is allowing its UK staff the opportunity to take up to four days a year as "self-love days" in addition to their allotted PTO. Think other companies will follow suit? Is it only a matter of time before self-love days become the new mental health days? We'll take it!

Gardening season might be winding down, but the "blooming orchid" sex position is having a moment. According to a recent study from Bedbible, the most popular sex positions in each state have been revealed, and plenty of couples are eyeing the Lotus move. While that flower is certainly beloved, its counterpart also deserves some attention. 

That being said, there might be some confusion as to what exactly the blooming orchid might entail, and whether or not it's worth attempting. But take comfort knowing that we have those bases covered for all those who are curious.

"It is important to experiment, keep the spark alive in the bedroom, and explore new and exciting positions," a spokesperson for Bedbible revealed. "Though with so many out there, it can be a challenge to know which positions to try and if they are going to work for you. Being able to do research beforehand can make you feel a lot more comfortable about experimenting." 

The research has been done. Ready to find out more?

What is the 'blooming orchid' sex position?

Those who have taken a liking to TikTok's "knee thing" will be pleased to learn about the blooming orchid. Like the viral trend, it offers close quarters and an opportunity for some intense eye contact, though there are a few key differences between the two. (Not a problem if you'd prefer to keep your eyes closed during sex, though.)  

First things first: each partner should get down on one knee as if they were about to pop the question. Place your other foot on the floor opposite of your partner's and get close. Then, it's time to make the magic happen. Though it is possible for all genders to try, note that the blooming orchid typically requires one partner to penetrate and the other to receive. 

Couples are particularly drawn to the move because it offers a new environment (the floor instead of the bed) and triggers new sensations. Though it can definitely be an exciting thing to try, do note that it could be tiring on your knees, so make sure you're on a comfy surface when things heat up, as they inevitably will.

What are other creative sex positions to try? 

Sexologists are encouraging experimentation ahead of the fall season—the spice is not reserved for those lattes—so if you're looking to take their suggestions, you can also consider a few of these satisfying yet not-quite-as-common moves. But before you challenge yourself and your partner, make sure to talk about sex, get consent, and prep with the necessary accessories. 

1. The Pretzel Dip

We can't resist a twisty soft pretzel. Though bending our bodies into the snack might not be entirely seamless, the pros insist the Pretzel Dip is worth it. The person being penetrated should lie on their right side while their partner kneels. The one receiving will lift up their left leg while their S.O. straddles the right one and enters them. This allows for deeper penetration.

2. The Ghost Rider

Spooky season is upon us, and Condoms.uk decided to get the celebration going with a few frighteningly delightful Halloween sex positions. Ready ghosts, goblins, ghouls? Be warned that this might be a little more of a workout than its predecessors. 

To achieve the Ghost Rider, one partner will lie down on their stomach with a pillow under their hips. Then, Player B will straddle them and lower themselves down until they're sitting on the pelvis. Grab their ankles for support and begin riding back and forth. 

3. Standing Sex

Considered one of the more intimate sex positions to help couples get back on the same page, sex sans bed allows for a "spontaneous surge of passion" and allows you to look deep into your partner's eyes. 

4. The Amazon

No, the Amazon sex position has nothing to do with the rainforest or the retail giant. It's considered a cross between missionary and cowgirl. To make it happen, the penetrating partner lies on their back with their knees up while the receiver straddles them with their knees on either side.

To the untrained eye, the unicorn sex toy might be mistaken for a decor trinket. But look a little closer, and you'll realize that the mythical creature is actually one of the best clitoral stimulators on shelves today. It just so happens that it also sports an adorable Y2K vibe—a win-win!

Creativity has been well received in the pleasure space, with the likes of the rose vibrator and mushroom sex toy gaining popularity and TikTok clout. But that's not to say that efficiency takes a back seat. Au contraire! If you want to hop aboard the fairytale train, here's the scoop. 

Shop the unicorn sex toy, the 'Unihorn Heart Throb':

What'd we tell you? Adorable, right? The Unihorn Heart Throb Pulsing Clitoral Mini Vibrator, as it's properly known, features 20 mix-and-match functions, 10 vibrating features, and 10 licking features—tiny but mighty. According to a review that branded the gadget as unreal, the shopper said they "never realized how much I need [it] in my life."

Chances are, you'll also need one, too. And if you need a little extra convincing, the splash-proof, Phthalate-Free gadget made from silicone keeps things pleasurable all while making sure your skin stays soft. (FYI it works best with a water-based lube.) 

Considering we're approaching a new season, and fall sex tips are beginning to circulate in the wellness area, why not take sexologists' advice and experiment with a new goodie for your collection? We can't think of anything cuter, truthfully, than this lil' trinket.

You might also like these sexy additions...

If you're thinking about a few other treats, you can also find similar sensations (and results) with one of the following gadgets: 

And when all is said and done, be sure to learn how to clean your sex toys properly, according to our sexpert-backed guide!

A telling new study has revealed the most popular sex position in each state, and you might be surprised by the results. Though Americans can rarely, if ever, agree on anything, it seems people across the country can concur on experimentation. From unique pleasure gadgets (take Lovers' mushroom sex toys, for example) to viral TikTok trends (like the knee thing), couples are eager to explore new paths to pleasure. 

According to research from Bedbible, there are a few favorite go-to's from coast to coast, and there are some lesser-known tactics intriguing couples. Regardless of what it is that strikes a state's fancy—the Wheelbarrow or the Lotus—it's crucial to talk about sex with your partner, express your needs, and get consent. 

"It is important to experiment, keep the spark alive in the bedroom, and explore new and exciting positions," a spokesperson for the brand revealed. "Though with so many out there, it can be a challenge to know which positions to try and if they are going to work for you. Being able to do research beforehand can make you feel a lot more comfortable about experimenting."

For those who want to wrap themselves up like an Auntie Ann pretzel or take things the simple route (such as spooning), here's what each state is most sexually curious about. (Psst: these are the top five most Googled sex positions if you're a bit overwhelmed with all of the options below!)

What is the most popular sex position in each state?

So, where do each of the states stand? We divvied up the findings for you, and since you were curious, the Pretzel was crowned the winner with 14 locations to its name. 

So, what does the Pretzel entail? The person being penetrated should lie on their right side while their partner kneels. The one receiving will lift up their left leg while their S.O. straddles the right one and enters them. The benefits of being somewhat sideways, legs folded and wrapped about, are that the penetration is deeper and it's easier to make eye contact. 

The silver medal was awarded to the popular Speed Bump sex position, akin to doggy style, but instead of forcing themselves up, the receiving partner lays flat on their stomach doggy style with a pillow propped beneath their hips. 

And in third place was the Eiffel Tower, perfect for jet setters...or, you know, the northeast. Per Bedbible, this move happens when one person goes on all fours to perform oral sex and creates the tower “base” while another receives oral sex and the other penetrates the “base”. 

Here's where the entire country stacks up in terms of sexual curiosity: 

• Alabama: The Eagle
• Alaska: The Triceratops
• Arizona: The Butter Churner
• Arkansas: The Speed Bump
• California: Cupid's Arrow
• Colorado: The Speed Bump
• Connecticut: The Eiffel Tower
• Delaware: The Eiffel Tower
• Florida: The Corkscrew
• Georgia: Spooning
• Hawaii: The Jackhammer
• Idaho: The Pretzel 
• Illinois: The Butter Churner
• Indiana: The Speed Bump
• Iowa: The Pretzel
• Kansas: The Pretzel 
• Kentucky: The Pretzel
• Louisiana: The Pretzel 
• Maine: The Eagle
• Maryland: The Pile Driver
• Massachusetts: The Speed Bump
• Michigan: Missionary
• Minnesota: The Pretzel
• Mississippi: The Pretzel
• Missouri: The Wheelbarrow
• Montana: The Lotus
• Nebraska: The Pretzel
• Nevada: The Pretzel
• New Hampshire: The Lotus
• New Jersey: The Prone
• New Mexico: The Pretzel
• New York: Cupid's Arrow
• North Carolina: The Sniper
• North Dakota: The Pretzel
• Ohio: The Corkscrew
• Oklahoma: The Pretzel
• Oregon: The Eiffel Tower
• Pennsylvania: The Pile Driver
• Rhode Island: The Eagle
• South Carolina: The Butterfly
• South Dakota: The Pile Driver
• Tennessee: The Speed Bump
• Texas: The Speed Bump
• Utah: The Pretzel
• Vermont: The Wheelbarrow
• Virginia: Cupid's Arrow
• Washington: The Wheelbarrow
• West Virginia: The Pretzel
• Wisconsin: The Speed Bump
• Wyoming: The Eiffel Tower

What is your home state horny for?

The popular swan sex toy proves that creativity knows no bounds when it comes to pleasure. On the heels of the newly released mushroom sex toy and the viral spike in popularity for the not-so-slow snail sex toy, the swan vibrator is gaining traction amongst its peers and creating a buzz for its unique, dual-pleasure capabilities. Plus, it sounds downright fancy. (*Raises pinky*) 

Should you find yourself in need of a shopping spree, or if the bird-inspired gadget has you intrigued, we'll give you all the insight you need into this exclusive knickknack. Ready to add a bit of elegance to your collection? 

Shop swan sex toys from Lovers

Though we're accustomed to a swan's white, fluffy feathers, Playboy Pleasure's The Swan Vibrator is a jet-black gadget that looks like it means business. It's gaining popularity for its two gently curved and flexible shafts that move with your body to make the experience customizable. The 10 vibrating speeds and rhythms are hard at work while the clitoris is being stimulated and the longer shaft enters you. Shoppers will also be glad to learn that the device is waterproof, Phthalate-free, and latex-free.

This goodie is part of the Playboy Pleasure collection, which is available exclusively at Lovers. Check out the fan favorites from the line, many created with an emphasis on the "shallowing" self-love technique. 

And should you want to keep the sophistication going, you'll be pleased to learn that the viral rose sex toy is also a crowd-pleaser, and it's significantly discounted at the moment. If roses and swans aren't the epitome of fancy, we're not sure what is. 

When all is said and done with your fall shopping spree, be sure to have a look at our expert-backed tips for how to clean your sex toys (plus how often to clean 'em). You're welcome, darlings!

Curious about Alix Earle's boyfriend sitch? Well, you're not alone, as the certified IT-girl has been teasing her current dating sitch over on TikTok—following her and NFL star Braxton Berrios' recent red carpet "hard launch"...

In case you missed it, the Miami Dolphin wide receiver and the TikTok star stepped out together on Wednesday, July 12 for the 2023 ESPY Awards, seemingly confirming that something is going on between them.

So, here's everything we know about the rumored couple—because we know you're desperate for all the intel—plus a recap of Alix Earle's dating history in general...

Who is Alix Earle's boyfriend right now?

While we continue to scour the web for updates on Emma Watson's dating sitch and that of Kendall Jenner's and Bad Bunny's relationship, the intel on Alix Earle's boyfriend sitch just keeps on coming!

As mentioned, Alix is rumored to be Braxton Berrios' girlfriend—with the pair seemingly confirming their relationship with their red carpet debut at the ESPY Awards.

Rumors first started swirling about the couple in March 2023, before gaining traction after DeuxMoi posted a blind item claiming an unnamed NFL player and Influencer were dating—to which fans filled in the blanks.

However, despite all the speculation (and various sightings of Alix with someone who looked a whole lot like Braxton) Alix maintained that she did not have a boyfriend, replying to fans in her TikTok comments.

By the summer though, the evidence certainly started piling up that something was going on between them, especially after Alix posted a "date night" video on June 28, 2023, again accompanied by someone fans are 99.9% sure was the Dolphins player.

Then finally on July, we got visual confirmation as Alix and Braxton posed together at the ESPY event in LA. 

As for the latest updates, Alix posted a TikTok on Sunday, September 17, 2023, of her and her friends watching the Miami Dolphins vs. New England Patriots game, with tacos. P.S. She also just so happened to be wearing a Berrios jersey! So it seems whatever is going on between the two, is still going strong...

What happened with Alix Earle, Braxton Berrios and Sophia Culpo?

Around the same time that these Alix and Braxton's relationship rumors started swirling, there was also some drama around the duo after Braxton's ex, Sophia Culpo alleged that the NFL star had cheated on her. 

Braxton broke his silence on their breakup on June 27, 2023, over on his Instagram Story, saying (via People): "I don't wanna start anything. I don't wanna fuel anything. I genuinely want all this to be over and everybody to move on and do whatever makes them happy,

"I was in a relationship for two years. It was a good relationship, it was a healthy one, and towards the end of it we had conversations along the lines of we just weren't working out. So when we split back in January, that's why. It had nothing to do with anything else. It had nothing to with anybody else for that matter, and we just didn't work out, and that's ok. So it's been very weird and sad to see kind of what's gone on since then. I've been quiet because it's totally out of character for me talk about my private life publicly, but I feel like it needed to be touched on."

His response came after Sophia shared a now-deleted TikTok video, with a caption that read: "Give it a few but call me when the love bombing ends. I gotchu #girlsgirl." which many fans took as shading Alix and Braxton.

Then, following Braxton's IG statement, Sophia shared the supposed "real timeline" of the split on her TikTok story (as per Seventeen), where she said: "The real timeline. We broke up after the Drake concert Super Bowl weekend where he was seen making out with another girl. Not bitter, in fact, I know the situation has been one of my biggest blessings. I wish everyone in this situation all the best, including myself which is why I'm here to share the truth so I can finally be done with all of this. All love."

Alix Earle dating history: Who has she dated?

So, now we've sussed out the influencer's current dating sitch, who is Alix Earle's ex boyfriend?

Tyler Wade

Alix Earle and Tyler Wade dated for three months in 2022. The pair made things official in September but parted ways in December of that same year. 

Alix confirmed her split from the Yankees baseball player in a TikTok live, where she revealed: "We haven’t been together for a hot minute, I’ve just been hiding it from you guys because I didn’t feel like dealing with it right now. Even stuff I posted of me and my boyfriend—we were not even dating like a week or two ago."

Despite their breakup though, Alix later confirmed that she and Tyler were still on "good terms."

We won't deny ourselves a Tom Ford Lost Cherry dupe, and we certainly can't resist testing out new fall perfumes, but is scent seduction something that truly affects our decision in selecting a mate? Should we have specific fragrances on our checklist next to "good job" and "sense of humor"? According to various studies, scent is definitely important when it comes down to attraction, and it can affect the way in which people connect with one another.

"There's been research on people's responses to others' bodily scents, often in the context of researching pheromones, which suggests that for at least many of us, it really matters to attraction and pleasure if we love the way our partners smell," says Dr. Carol Queen, Ph.D., the in-house sexologist at Good Vibes. 

As much as we encourage a stroll down the fragrance aisle at Sephora—who are we to resist?!—your vanilla-scented body mist is not going to necessarily be a make-it-or-break-it factor. Here's what you need to know. 

Is 'scent seduction' important in attraction?

According to a 2017 study in Frontiers in Psychology, one of many of its kind, visual, auditory, and olfactory cues suggest that attraction is multimodal, meaning a pretty face isn't the only determining factor in who we find to be good-looking.

Agata Groyecka, a researcher at the University of Wroclaw in Poland who oversaw the study said, per CNN, "Some odors are not only rated as more pleasant but also sexier, and therefore, they are likely to make people eager to flirt or date. Similarly, unpleasant odors can be discouraging to engaging in a relationship."

But more often than not, the scents in question are natural, not manufactured.

"The focus here is not on artificial scents—there's a lot of PR trying to convince us to embrace various perfumes, aftershaves, scented candles, etc.," Dr. Queen notes.

Likewise, Dr. Laurie Mintz, a sexpert at Lelo, says, "We know that scent does play a role in attraction. However, there is no one scent that fits all. Scents that we find attractive aren’t necessarily artificial ones. In cultures that don’t mask body scents, a person’s natural body odor or the 'smell of sex' may be a turn-on. In societies that value covering up scents, these same smells may be a turn-off."

Given the uptick in sensory play sex trends, fragrances are definitely worth noting but understand that what might be appealing to you could be totally different to someone else. Much like sexual experiences themselves, everyone has a preference—there's no right or wrong answer. 

"All of this is deeply personal," says Angie Rowntree, founder and director of Sssh.com "We don’t want to say 'all women love Lavender or Jasmine' or 'Cinnamon or Sandalwood always does the trick' because the way a scent registers with your brain and my brain might be very different. It  also seems clear that there’s a strong relationship between scent and memory, and our associations likely evolve throughout our lifetime."

Well, pheromones aside, if you're looking to explore the sensory play sex trend (yes, with some manufactured goodies) have a look at our sexpert-backed guide.

We're in the midst of a sex boom, but don't you find it odd that singles are opting for sex with an ex instead of attempting to make new romantic connections? 

Yes, dating burnout is a real thing, but a staggering 70% of millennials are dismissing introductions entirely and resorting to familiarity, according to eharmony findings. It's almost as if they're putting the breakup out of their minds. 

"There's comfort with an ex. They know you, and it feels easy to fold back into each other," says eharmony's dating expert, Laurel  House. "Even after a breakup, the door isn’t always closed."

Reconnecting with an ex isn't entirely out of the realm of possibility, but why is there a sudden surge in this potentially problematic behavior? Let's dig in.

Why are so many singles having sex with an ex?

Despite parting ways, singles find intimate moments with a familiar partner to be easy and without complications. They'd rather resort to old habits than spend time getting to know someone new and face awkward moments. 

"So many singles are looking for easy, uncomplicated comfort. With an ex, you can quickly be vulnerable, feel safe, have fun, and bask in the sexy excitement of the renewed relationship," she says. "When you are getting back with an ex, you already likely know the issues. You know what you are signing up for and what to do in order to make it work this time around."

Plus, House insists that the no-strings-attach sentiment makes things easier and just might open the door for a moving conversation since there's no need for fear; the unthinkable has already happened, and couples are back together...to an extent. 

"For couples who broke up for certain reasons, real and honest conversation can begin after the first magnetically intense sex session that releases that built-up sexual tension and mix of emotions," Laurel notes. "That first post-sex conversation can often be the first real and honest conversation that re-new couples have because at this point they have nothing to lose."

Is having sex with an ex a bad idea?

Every situation is different, but reconnecting with an old flame doesn't always have to spell disaster. It could be an acknowledgment of two people growing and making changes. Perhaps they're in a better place now to deal with past issues.

"Whether it is a positive or a negative all depends on each couple, the reason for the breakup, the work and realizations made while apart, and the reasons for getting back together," House says. "But overall, recycling exes can definitely be a good thing, because we all evolve, grow, and change over time, and oftentimes it isn’t the wrong person,” but instead the right person/wrong time."

To give naysayers a little hope, eharmony's research finds that 43% of rekindled relationships are more likely to improve rather than worsen after getting back together.

Tips for when you're sleeping with an ex

While you're definitely entering murky territory, it could either be a positive or negative experience, as House suggests. Figure out what you want from the relationship moving forward, and then be prepared to heal the connection. House suggests the following:

• Acknowledge and attempt to first fix the root of the problem
• Acknowledge the damage that leaving may have done
• Be empathetic
• Re-build trust
• Create new healthy habits as a couple

Exes don't always have to be the villains—sometimes there are ways for relationships to pull through. 

Is closing your eyes during sex *really* as catastrophic as we've been led to believe? Those who are particularly stressed about intimacy seem to think that this reaction is a red flag during a passionate encounter. But does it spell disaster, or are we creating problems that don't exist? 

So, how did this negative stigma get started, and why are people on the fence about something so simple? Let's dive in. 

Closing your eyes during sex: why are we stressed about it?

Firstly: according to sexperts, yes, we are overthinking the behavior and making something out of nothing. 

"There's nothing wrong with having your eyes closed or open; it's just a matter of preference and having a conversation about it ahead of time can thwart someone's insecurity about it," says Marla Renee Stewart, MA, sexpert for Lovers. 

Some people seem to think that without direct eye contact, an intimate moment is being overlooked, but if you ask Andy Duran, education director at sex-positive toy brand Good Vibes, it has nothing to do with poor manners. 

"I think partners sometimes worry that if they aren’t making eye contact during face-to-face sex it means they are mentally elsewhere, or fantasizing about someone else being there," he says. "Often, this is not at all why folks are closing their eyes. Sometimes closing our eyes is literally our natural response to being overstimulated and can help us to just focus more on the sensations."

Actually, giving your eyes a little rest during sexy time can be a good thing. It does not mean your mind is wandering or that you're losing steam.

"It heightens your other senses, making your partner’s sounds, touch, and other actions stand out more," Duran says. "They could tease and play with the anticipation factor of you not knowing their next move."

Likewise, Stewart agrees that a lil' shuteye could be a positive reaction. She adds, "It can help you to increase your vulnerability and therefore, you may become closer to your lover because you are trusting them with your other senses and depending on them to ensure your safety and security."

Are there cons to this approach? Of course, but like most things with sex and relationships, it's subjective. It could be a turn-off to some who want to take in their partner's reactions and vice versa. For some, having their eyes open is a sense of security.

"This can be particularly difficult for those who have experienced trauma and depend on their eyes to keep them aware and safe," Stewart notes. "Every touch that you experience might be jarring, especially if you're used to keeping your eyes open."

So what does this mean? There is no right or wrong answer. You should only focus on making yourself and your partner happy and shut out the outside world. That's why the professionals insist it's so important to talk about sex to get on the same page as your other half.

"There may be a negative stigma surrounding closing one’s eyes during sex due to societal expectations that emphasize consistent visual engagement [but] different people may want different things out of sex," says Sarah Cisar, PR and media director of personal lubricant brand COCONU. "It is important to communicate to find out what works best for BOTH of you."

Now, with all of this in mind, just do you! (And have a look at our sexpert-backed list of fall sex tips to spice things up this season.) 

Does squirting improve your sex life? It is the key to extraordinary orgasms? Why are women making such a big deal about the phenomenon now? And, heck, is it even physically possible? There's a lot of curiosity surrounding the sensation, and what exactly is fact vs. fiction. 

Those who are intent on resetting their sex lives seem to believe that squirting, which is sometimes referred to as female ejaculation, can work magic. Others think it's nothing but an embarrassment. Is it bad or good? Well, truth be told, it's neither. 

"Despite some of the videos you will see online telling women how to squirt during sex, this is just a wonderful way women’s bodies vary," says Dr. Laurie Mintz, a sexpert at Lelo. "Some squirt and some don’t."

Here's what's really happening during all of this, and why there are so many questions about the sensation. Our sexperts will walk you through it all. 

Before we get into how it affects us in intimate situations, let's dissect the definition. Though only 10% to 50% of people with vulvas actually experience the sensation, squirting refers to the expulsion of fluid released by the Skene’s glands from G-spot stimulation or clitoral and G-spot stimulation, according to Healthline. 

As is the case with most sexual experiences, it's subjective and something some people might not even encounter—it all depends on their Skene's glands.

Does squirting improve your sex life?

Yes, it can definitely heighten sensations during an intimate encounter. 

"Squirting is very frequently associated with orgasm, which is a big pro in many people's opinions," says says Dr. Carol Queen, PhD and in-house sexologist at Good Vibes. "Additionally, it's often reported by those who do it that it can make the orgasm feel especially powerful."

Likewise, Lisa Finn, sex educator and marketing Director at Babeland, says, "It can feel really powerful and erotic to experience such a distinct and visible result of pleasure."

She also notes that it can have its benefits from a health standpoint. 

"The release of these fluids through the urethra may help reduce the risk of UTIs," she adds. 

But, is it a make-it-or-break-it situation? Will women be worse off for not experiencing it? Are those who are not in the 10-50% bracket going to find themselves with a case of sexual FOMO?

"Honestly, this is not a pro and con situation because most sex educators and therapists would tell women to do what works for their bodies and not 'should' on themselves," adds Dr. Mintz. 

Whether it's squirting or wondering how long orgasms should last, or how often couples should be having sex in the first place, professionals are insisting we stop overanalyzing different factors and simply enjoy the experience with our partner (provided there is consent from both parties, of course).

What are the cons of squirting? 

Perhaps the biggest con of the sensation is that we really don't know much about it and that there is a lack of attention to the subject, according to the sexperts. 

"There isn't as much great research as I would like to see, and one issue is that it's not entirely clear whether it can play a role in STI transmission. And if so, how best to modify safer sex practices to deal with this," says Dr. Queen. 

Additionally, the phenomenon can get a bad rep or be misconstrued since there's a "lack of easily available, mainstream, normalizing information," per Dr. Queen.

Until we learn more, the sexologists are all in agreement that we should stop distracting ourselves with what we think "should" be; just let it all happen naturally. But should you really be curious, check out g-spot vibrators and other sex toys that cater to the erogenous zone or dual stimulation with the clitoris. 

Lately, it seems as if couples are trying to quantify their intimacy: how long should orgasms last? How long should sex last? How much is too much, and what's not enough? Who knew we were expected to bring our stopwatches into the bedroom?!

Though this is certainly not a new trend, the phenomenon seems to have been reignited thanks to a recent survey about the magic number of times to have sex each month. As a result, couples want to keep track of their status and whether or not they fall in line with the norm. But we have a little secret: there is no norm. 

"There really is no 'should' with a question like this, or for most questions related to sexuality—apart from consent issues—since there is really such a range of experience out there," says Dr. Carol Queen, PhD and in-house sexologist at Good Vibes. "You could say, and not be far off the mark, that everyone has their own norm."

Are we getting too wrapped up in what we think "should" be? It sure seems that way.

How long should orgasms last? 

Sources have revealed different findings: female orgasms can range anywhere from 15 to 60 seconds, yet there have been times when some women have experienced a two-minute-long orgasm duration. (Yowza!) Then we can't help but mention the new trend of extended orgasms that leaves women wanting to make the fun last as long as possible...and then some. 

All in all, sexperts insist that we should stop thinking so much. 

"Rather than setting women up to do yet another unnecessary and unproductive comparison of themselves to others, what we like to emphasize is that all orgasms are wonderful, valid, and truly unique to the body and mind, says Angie Rowntree, founder and director of Sssh.com. 

Likewise, Dr. Laurie Mintz, a sexpert at Lelo, says, "Whenever the word 'should' occurs in a question about sex, this is of concern to most sex therapists. Don’t 'should' on yourself—let your body do what it does!"

Why you *shouldn't* be concerned about duration

When you're too busy comparing, it takes away from the pleasure. It becomes about hitting a target when there shouldn't really be one in the first place. 

"If you're too stressed about whether or not you're having the right kinds of orgasms, you're going to dilute your experience or prevent yourself from enjoying or even reaching your orgasm altogether," says Lisa Finn, sex educator and marketing Director at Babeland.

What's more, couples seem to believe that there needs to be a grand finale in order to mark off the experience as a success, but Finn insists that's not so. 

"Many folks don't even need to finish to enjoy and feel fulfilled after a sexual encounter," she adds.

What to do instead of counting...

There's no need to turn an intimate and enjoyable experience into a chore.

"Pay attention to your own desires and experience and optimize that from within your own responses, not by comparing yourself to others," Dr. Queen says. 

There isn't a number you're supposed to hit, and given that our bodies change so much throughout time, we can't really pinpoint an exact number. 

"Even day-to-day our own orgasms and how we experience them can change drastically [due to] factors like stress, medication, menstrual cycle, hormones, mood, dehydration," Finn notes. 

Instead of trying to keep track, just focus on what makes you and your partner happy, and as mentioned, make sure there is always consent.

In today's see-it-to-believe-it news, snail sex toys have slowly been working their way into the limelight. Though the critter is often overlooked in nearly every facet of life, the gastropod has made a name for itself in the sexual wellness space for its twofold capabilities.

Rose sex toys have risen to fame on TikTok and mushroom vibrators are causing a buzz, but Lovers' Snail Vibe Vibrator takes pleasure up a notch from its other nature-themed counterparts by stimulating both the vagina and clitoris. We might not want to see this baby in the garden, but the bedroom is another story.

Shop the snail sex toys

If you're thinking about adding these intricate-looking gizmos to your collection, do be sure to also take a look at our expert-back guide for solo sex techniques. According to sexologist Ness Cooper, it's crucial to get to know yourself well without a partner.

"I think what’s most important is to focus on spending time with yourself and get to know your body," she previously told My Imperfect Life. "Get yourself in a relaxed state and become aware of the sensations going through your body."

What's to love about snail sex toys?

Yes, this sex toy is shaped like the shelled invertebrates for shoppers' benefit. Its silicone lower arm penetrates while the snail's shell uncoils the deeper the lower arm goes. It ensures that all erogenous zones are getting simultaneous TLC and nothing is being ignored. Plus, it features five settings and speeds, which is more than we can say for a regular 'ol snail. (No offense, guys.) 

To make the solo sex experience even more enticing, you can also opt for The SnailVibe Curve, a new take on the original that aligns with the body's curves for an even more personalized sensation. Snails! Who knew?

You might also like...

If snail sex toys strike your fancy, you might want to consider a few more unique goodies. As mentioned, the rose sex toy is a crowd-pleasure for its features: it's portable, waterproof, versatile, and comes with 10 suction modes. Meanwhile, the mushroom cap design provides multi-faceted stimulation and 15 modes. Then, there's the unicorn sex toy, which you might mistake for a home decor piece. It features 20 mix-and-match functions, 10 vibrating features, and 10 licking features

No other humans are required, but snails, mushrooms, roses, and unicorns are welcome. And don't worry, we spoke to the pros about how to clean your sex toys so that you're having fun and staying healthy and safe, too. 

Cute and handy (quite literally), mushroom sex toys are having a moment and taking pleasure in a playful new direction. 

Though you might've had a strict no-fungi rule in the bedroom before, these innovative gadgets—much like Lovers' inflatable sex toys and TikTok's favorite rose sex toy—will inspire you to rethink your collection. After all, who doesn't appreciate a little creativity? 

Not only is Lovers 'shroom-inspired new line adorable (we might've mistaken the pieces for home decor items, honestly), but they're *very* functional. 

Shop Lovers' Mushroom Sex Toys

In some cases, the best sex toys aren't always the most creative, colorful or unique. Rest assured that's not the case here. 

"Our new mushroom-themed sex toys are designed to provide pleasure that’s both visually enchanting and incredibly satisfying," said Jen May, the vice president of marketing at Lovers. "The 'cap' design at the top of the curved shaft of some of these toys provides multi-faceted stimulation, another reminder that Mother Nature knows best."

There are three items in the collection worthy of attention. The Shroomie Rechargeable Mushroom Vibrator is versatile with 15 functions, while the Jessi Trippy Mushroom Mini Bullet is a discreet gadget that's tiny but mighty. (Ten vibrating functions and 100% submersible!) Then there's the Pixies Exciter Vibrator, which is super-flexible, customizable, and waterproof. 

And, as previously mentioned, they're adorable-looking. (Just be careful not to place one on your bookshelf or atop a mantle because it is not a home accent, as much as it might look like one!)

After your 'shroomie shopping spree, be sure to have a look at these sexpert-backed fall sex tips that will help you make the most out of the season ahead. (We love spice in the autumn, don't we, folks?) When all is said and done, and your goodies have been secured, be sure to have a look at our guide on how to clean sex toys so your goodies will stay safe and in tip-top shape.

No thorns here: TikTok's fan-favorite rose sex toy has found endless love across FYPs, and that affection only appears to be growing.

While some TikTok sex hacks are questionable at best, platform users and sex professionals are in agreement that Lovehoney's clitoral stimulator is definitely worthy of the fanfare. Should your nightstand collection need an upgrade, or if you just feel like treating yourself, now is the time—especially with that major discount. 

Why are people loving the rose sex toy on TikTok?

Why is the Lovehoney Rose Clitoral Suction Stimulator—its proper name—getting so much hype? Specifically, 274.5 million views and counting under the hashtag #rosesextoy? 

TikTokers say "nothing can compare to it" and a Lovehoney shopper confessed that the product "taught me things I didn't know I could do." It's a game-changer that's taking self-love to rosy new levels, quite literally. 

The portable, waterproof, and versatile gadget—it comes with 10 suction modes that you'll appreciate exploring—boasts plenty of great features that catapulted it into "TikTok Made Me Buy It" status. 

Plus, there are a few renditions of the beloved classic that up the ante, such as the added egg vibrator to simultaneously target the G spot. Should you really feel compelled to splurge, there's also a rose that comes with a G-spot vibrator. (Note: the latter two products are not currently discounted.) 

As much as the roses sex toy is beloved, do not that it is not one of the quieter accessories available, and that charging at times can feel a little clunky, but all in all, customers have not been deterred!

Shop Lovehoney's TikTok-famous rose sex toy:

Get 30% off the OG floral find, and be sure to check out a few other crowd-pleasing Lovehoney roses. 

Though summer is winding down and our garden of roses might not be around for much longer, take comfort in the fact that these flowers abound year-round. And while you're at it, have a look at our sexpert-backed fall sex tips for a spicy season ahead. (And we're not just referring to those pumpkin-spice lattes!) 

Sex with anyone for the first time is nerve-wracking, but especially your first time with a same-sex partner. 

Year after year, the number of people identifying as LGBTQ+ is increasing, meaning that there are more of us than ever facing our first same-sex encounter. 

The Office for National Statistics estimates that the percentage of people in the UK aged 16 and over identifying as lesbian, gay, or bisexual almost doubled between 2014 and 2020, going from 1.6% of the population to 3.1%.

Learning the language of a new body is daunting but same-sex partnership is an electrifying experience when it feels right, so dive into the pool. Don’t worry, there are flotation devices! Here's everything you need to know, with support from our sexperts. 

What to know before your first time with a same-sex partner

1. Embrace your identity

Before you strip off, look inward to figure out how you feel about the prospect. Don’t bring internalized homophobia into the bedroom. It’s not sexy! 

No, you don’t need to select a label or even question your sexual orientation to have sex with a same-sex partner. Life is fluid, and so is sexual pleasure. Setting parameters for your explorations and expectations will make the journey smoother, though. 

It’s normal to wonder what’s on the other side when you’ve been sold heterosexuality as the only acceptable framework for partnership in life. 

“Suppressing your sexual orientation can restrict your ability to express yourself authentically, leading to a sense of disconnection from your true identity,” says London-based psychologist Dr. Becky Spelman, founder of the Private Therapy Clinic. 

“Acceptance of oneself is a crucial step in finding peace and happiness. Surround yourself with positive influences and affirmations that reinforce self-acceptance,” the doc adds. 

2. Educate yourself

Sex education in schools is still a long way from being capable of guiding people through all the realms of sexuality safely. Amongst LGBTQ+ folks, too many newbies learn the basics from over-the-top porn scenes or equally uneducated peers. 

Challenge heteronormativity and internalized homophobia by broadening the spectrum of what sex can be. 

“Learn about different sexual orientations, including the one you are discovering,” says Spelman. “Be patient with yourself, embrace self-exploration, and surround yourself with supportive and understanding individuals who can contribute positively to your journey.”

3. Communicate through your experimentation

Having same-sex bedroom fun for the first time requires putting communication and self-understanding first. Speak to your partner, or partners, and be clear with your intentions. 

Are you inviting a third into the bedroom of a heterosexual relationship? Are you interested in experimenting with a newfound sexual orientation separately from your current partner? Are you trying a group sex experience? Are you dating women or men for the first time? 

No one knows how much of a ripple effect any sexual interaction is going to have, let alone a totally new one. Clarify the boundaries before allowing the orgasmic waves to flood the field!

4. Navigate the scenario

You don’t owe anyone a “this is my first time” speech but it might stop you from hyperfocusing on reaching the expert level immediately.

“The decision to disclose your sexual history or experiences, including whether it's your first time with someone of the same sex, is a personal one,” Spelman explains. “If you have an established emotional connection with your partner, disclosing your sexual history may deepen your bond and allow for a more meaningful experience.”

Allow the moment to flow. Don’t overcomplicate sex with a same-sex partner; it’s biological pleasure, and our bodies know what to do.

“Asking what someone enjoys can be more important than focusing on getting it right,” says clinical sexologist and therapist Ness Cooper, Je Joue’s resident sexologist. “Asking what someone enjoys can be more important than focusing on getting it right. This is the first time you’re having sex with that individual, whether it’s LGBTQ+ same-sex sex or heteronormative.”

5. Learn the mechanics

Don’t let excitement cockblock safety! Barrier contraception is equally important, even if there's no risk of pregnancy. 

Wrap up penises with condoms for oral and penetrative sex with new partners. Cover anywhere bodily fluids flow—yes, this includes the vagina and the anus, too—with dental dams to shield against orally transmitted sexually transmitted infections. 

“There can be more of a focus on penetration-based sex for those who consider themselves as heterosexual,” Cooper says. “Some LGBTQ+ individuals may enjoy having parts of their body stimulated in ways that fit with their gender, or body parts called differently to what they were told at birth.”

Experiment with sex toys, techniques, and positions. (Ladies, here are the best lesbian sex positions to get you inspired.) Remember to have fun. Stop following the old manual, color all over the damn book, and redraw the lines. This is your space. 

What to know about oral sex with a vagina:

Vaginas are all unique and most of the key operations take place in the brain. 

To enjoy this pleasure center to its fullest, create a comfortable environment and communicate while enjoying other erogenous zones on the way down. Savour the meal and the dessert will come!

“When it comes to giving oral sex for the first time, don’t be afraid to use your fingers alongside your tongue and lips,” says Cooper. “Moving the vulva and labia with your fingers can help you gain more access to areas such as the clitoris.”

What to know about oral sex with a penis:

Don’t oversimplify the penis! Penises are more complex than they first appear; incorporate all of their elements by playing with the balls, perineum and anus, too. (Here's our guide to all things anal, FYI, for even more tips.) 

“Remember that you don’t have to just focus on trying to insert the whole penis at once, and you can just focus on the head of the penis,” Cooper advises for first time oral with a penis. “Flicking the frenulum with the tongue can be pleasurable for some penis owners, and using your tongue to stimulate this area can lead to a mind-blowing experience.”

Use your tongue and your hands as a team and don’t make ejaculation the only goal. There is a lot of pleasure to be had between the start touches and the finishing fireworks! 

What happened between Tyler Stanaland and Brittany Snow that caused their relationship to crumble? 

Ahead of Selling the OC, Tyler Stanaland received plenty of attention, not necessarily for his participation on the show, but for his famous counterpart, a.k.a. Pitch Perfect royalty Brittany Snow. Once the Netflix series dropped, viewers turned their attention toward the surfer and relator for other reasons: his flirty behavior. 

Read Tyler Stanaland and Brittany Snow's statement

Although the announcements about their September 2022 separation were vague and neither party has publicly commented on what caused them to part ways, fans have made plenty of speculations since the news broke last year.

"After time and consideration, Tyler and I have made the difficult decision to separate," Snow's statement read. "This decision was made with love and mutual respect for one another. We have realized we need to take some time and make sure we are each living our most fulfilling and authentic lives." 

What happened between Tyler Stanaland and Brittany Snow?

Viewers (and O Group staffers) were up in arms about Tyler's almost-kiss with Kayla Cardona on the debut season of the show. According to Stanaland, the incident did not come between him and Snow at the time, and Cardona apologized for the almost-kiss. 

For her part, Cardona has claimed that she is not the only one who deserves the scrutiny.

"Everyone else wants to put all the blame on me. No one else is innocent, I'll make that real clear," she told Netflix Tudum. "I think they reacted from a place of guilt and they wanted to put all that heat on me because they know they're guilty themselves. I haven't done half of the s*** that they've done. And I'm also talking about off-camera."

While no one knows specifically what she was alluding to, some believe Tyler and Alex's Hall flirty friendship--which paps and onlookers caught glimpses of when the cameras stopped rolling in fall 2022--is the culprit. 

At the time, Hall told People, "His close friends know a little bit more about his personal life than the audience knows. So anybody in their right mind, I mean, who do you call when you're going through issues? You call your friends. I think people really want to hold onto that idea that there's something there between Tyler and [I]. I mean, at this point, we're just friends, so there's nothing more to it."

Whatever the reason, and regardless of the agent, it appears that the split was a heartbreaking ordeal. In a May 2023 interview with Bustle, Snow opened up about the struggles she went through, without naming her ex-husband directly, and said that her Pitch Perfect family helped nurse her back to health after the turbulent time. 

"In the past year I went through probably the hardest mental health challenge I've ever faced," she told the outlet. "In one day, in a matter of hours, my life turned completely upside down. I was blindsided and everything I thought I knew, held sacred and truly trusted in my life was completely different."

This is certainly not the ending we expected from the pair, who first crossed paths via Instagram DMs in 2018.

"I knew of Britt for obvious reasons, but she was my unattainable crush forever," Stanaland told The Knot in March 2020. "As a man, I used to watch Pitch Perfect with friends and [thought] 'Brittany Snow. One day.' But never thinking it would ever happen. I sent a direct message with the most embarrassing pickup line. A dad joke."

From there the two were inseparable and embarked on puppy parenthood before tying the knot in 2020. Before Stanaland entered her life, Snow kept quiet about personal matters.

"I'm very public about [my relationship] for the first time in my life and that's very strange to me," she told US Weekly. "I keep things very to myself because I feel like the magic gets lost if you promote it too much, but I don't know! When you're in love..."

Selling the OC season 2 is available to stream on Netflix beginning Friday, September 8. 

Sure, the friskiest time of year is winding down, but these fall sex tips are guaranteed to spice up the season more than the grande PSL you've been harboring. 

While yes, libidos do well with a boost of Vitamin D, sexpert Angie Rowntree insists that friskiness abounds even as the colder months begin to sweep in.

"It is not without some irony that ‘sweater weather’ often invites us to stay in and lose the sweater entirely, if you catch our drift," Rowntree joked. "Even if you aren’t attempting to put 'pumpkin spice everything' into your life right now, fall has a way of igniting our senses and inviting us to savor."

As you trade in that bikini for a flannel, read her tips for making the most out of the season—and your sex life.

Top fall sex tips to help make the season spicy

And for the witchy women among us, do be sure to have a look at the sexpert-backed scary-good Halloween sex positions that are bound to make you forget about the bowl of Snickers and Twizzlers. The Zombie Apocalypse is like The Walking Dead, but sexy! 

1. Have a sexy game night

Most of us celebrate the indoor weather by getting cozy with a few games. Rowntree suggests upping the ante with a sexy twist...and perhaps a glass of wine. (Save Scrabble for another night, friends.) 

"Ban all phones and screens and keep it intimate," she said. "You could make a pillow and blanket palace on the floor and get busy right away. Or, if you prefer a little prelude, bring out the wine and snacks and try out some adult board games or dice games to get the foreplay going."

(Speaking of which, have a look at these foreplay tips if you want to keep the sexy spark sizzling throughout the evening.)

2. Invest in a sex pillow

Our backs can be unkind to us after excessive raking. (And those leaves just keep on comin'.) Invest in a sex pillow and look at readers' beloved pillow sex tips that make matters comfy and cozy. 

"Sex pillows are a genius way to experience a wider range of sex positions in an adaptive way that is friendly to everyone," Rowntree noted. 

3. Try sensation play

"Got any plans for that whipped cream, besides the pumpkin pie? Well, you do now," Rowntree said. 

Sensory play has been rising in popularity because it's subjective and the rules are entirely up to you and your partner. There's no right or wrong way to enjoy the sensation, quite literally. 

"It is a broad term used to encompass anything that arouses our five senses. This can be as simple as burning a scented candle, using scented body oil, having a nude romp on satin sheets," Rowntree said. 

Though we're aware you're already partial to autumn (obviously), these spicy tips will help you welcome the season and all of its steamy possibilities. And if you're a planner, take a look at these winter sex tips from the professionals, which keep things so steamy you'll forget it's frigid outside. 

We wouldn't be surprised if the Dua Lipa podcast, At Your Service, has amassed just as many listeners as her summer 2023 bop, "Dance the Night." 

The singer and Barbie star has taken to a new platform to shell out her thoughts on reinvention, spirituality, finding yourself, and yes, even resetting your sex life. Now in its third season, At Your Service's latest episode from Friday, September 1, shares some very important tips for what takes place between the sheets, and everyone's tuning in.

All about that Dua Lipa 'At Your Service' sex revelation

While in conversation with The Idol star Troye Sivan, the "Break My Heart" singer discussed the key to making steamy moments even more satisfying: talking about sex. (Yes, it's that simple.) That's what makes things good in bed. (Get it?)

"I think it's important to normalize the conversation around sex and make it a topic that we can speak about more freely, so we can let go of the guilt and the shame that ­surrounds it," she said. 

Likewise, a We-Vibe study with psychotherapist Rachel Wright—which got us thinking about the importance of communication in the first place—revealed that a staggering 85% of couples felt that their relationship was in a better place with open and honest dialogue. Additionally, 70% of couples interviewed in the study found that the issues they had were never even discussed! Talking is the starting point, folks.

Lipa added, "Not talking about sex with the person you are having sex with is a weird anomaly for me."

(Currently, Dua Lipa is dating filmmaker Romain Gavras and things are reportedly "getting serious" as they're vacationing together and meeting one another's families.)

Not only is talking about sex a way to keep things in check for both parties, but it can also be a way to explore and enjoy romance in a way you've never considered before.

"It's always so fun—and it goes back to that idea of keeping things fresh—to find ways to continue to be curious about your partner," she added.

After starting with the basics (a chit-chat), have a look at our expert-backed sex tips to spice things up, from utilizing all of your senses to testing out the best sex toys for couples. 

Have a listen to At Your Service on Apple Music. 

Following that supposed Timothée Chalamet and Kylie Jenner relationship hard launch, you might find yourself wondering about Timothee Chalamet's dating sitch as a whole and we just so happen to be in the mood for a recap...

In case you missed it, after months of speculation the Wonka actor and the Kylie Cosmetics mogul were spotted locking lips at Beyoncé's Renaissance LA show on Monday, September 4, 2023—visually confirming what we've all been suspecting for some time that something romantic is going on between them (much like that of Kendall Jenner and Bad Bunny's elusive relationship). 

And while this is heartbreaking news for all our Timothée stans out there, it's also piqued a ton of interest around his dating history in general. So, here's a full debrief on Timmy's love life, past and present...

Who is Timothée Chalamet dating as of 2023?

So, here's the big question—is Timothée Chalamet dating Kylie Jenner? Well, while neither Timmy nor Kylie have verbally confirmed anything, those smooches at Beyoncé's SoFi Stadium show speak volumes.

Clearly, there's something of a trend going on with hard launching your relationship with a healthy helping of PDA at a concert (*cough*, that Kendall and Bad Bunny Drake show moment) and Timothée and Kylie are indeed the latest couple to partake. So yeah, it would indeed appear that the pair are dating and Timothée is officially off the market once again.

Rumors first started swirling about the unlikely couple back in April 2023, after Deuxmoi posted a blind item (on April 6) that read: "Multiple sources have told me that Timmy C has a new girl...Kylie Jenner."

Shortly afterward, a picture began circulating of the two seemingly spending time together at Kylie's home in California. Fans also became convinced in August that Timmy and Kylie were vacationing together in Italy, after the both respectively shared Instagram posts with very familiar-looking backdrops.

Timothée Chalamet dating history: Who has he been linked to previously?

So, now we've sussed out the Kylie Jenner Timothée Chalamet sitch, who has the actor been linked to previously?

1. Timothée Chalamet and Taylor Russell

In November 2022, after starring side by side in Bones And All, fans began speculating that something was going on between Timothée and Taylor—especially after their sizzling chemistry on the press junket for their film. 

However, despite all the buzz, it appears as though things were only ever platonic between them, as neither Timmy nor Taylor ever commented on the rumors. Plus, it's not pretty clear Timmy is involved with Kylie Jenner, while Taylor Russell and Harry Styles are believed to be dating. 

2. Timothée Chalamet and Sarah Talabi

Before those Timmy and Taylor rumors, the actor was also linked to model Sarah Talabi in April 2022, with Deuxmoi claiming the pair were spotted kissing at Coachella.

When quizzed about the potential romance, Sarah Talabi told Page Six: "Everyone is asking me if I was kissing Timothée Chalamet at Coachella, and that is a good question. But a great question would be asking our world leaders why the Earth is now losing 1.2 trillion tons of ice each year due to global warming and why climate crisis reform has been completely ineffective." An iconic answer. 

3.Timothée Chalamet and Eiza González

According to the Daily Mail, back in June 2020, Timmy was dating Eiza González, after the publication obtained images of them seemingly kissing while on vacation in Cabo. However, by October, things seemed to have fizzled out between the couple.

4. Timothée Chalamet and Lily-Rose Depp

Perhaps the most famous and "shipped" of Timothée's past romances was his relationship with The Idol's Lily-Rose Depp.

The pair were linked in October 2018, after starring together in Netflix's The King. Fans were then sent into a frenzy after they were spotted kissing in NYC. Then, a few months later, came further visual confirmation of their relationship in the form of those infamous yacht kissing pics, from their vacation in Capri.

In November 2020, Timothée addressed the pictures in an interview with GQ, saying: "I went to bed that night thinking that was one of the best days of my life. I was on this boat all day with someone I really loved, and closing my eyes, I was like, indisputably, ‘That was great.’ And then waking up to all these pictures, and feeling embarrassed, and looking like a real k***? All pale?" 

The pair are thought to have split a few months prior to his GQ interview, in April 2020—with US Weekly reporting their breakup. As of 2023, Lily-Rose Depp is dating 070 Shake.

5. Timothée Chalamet and Lourdes Leon

Before his fan-favorite relationship with Lily-Rose Depp, Timothée was also linked to Madonna's daughter, Lourdes Leon, whom he reportedly met at high school in 2013.

In fact, Lourdes Leon actually confirmed that he was her first boyfriend in a 2021 interview with Vanity Fair saying: "I respect him a lot, we were a little item. My first boyfriend."

How often do couples have sex each month? Long-lasting pairs insist on hitting a magic number, quite literally, according to a new survey. 

While we were led to believe that Gen Z was in the midst of a sex boom, it appears those in a relationship for over a decade are the ones who've found satisfaction in said magic number. If you were looking to play the lotto (or reset your sex life), let's dive into the nitty-gritty details. 

How often do couples have sex each month?

According to the survey, there are a variety of ways for couples to keep the sparks alive after a good chunk of time has passed. The results? Never go to bed angry. Compromise on behalf of your significant other. And have sex seven times per month—the lucky and symbolic number appears to be a fan-favorite amongst those who've been together for 10-plus years.

To welcome the fictionalized retelling of Candy Montgomery's story, Love & Death, landing on ITVX, 2,000 Brits were surveyed to uncover the keys to a successful relationship. (Nothing like an ax-wielding true crime to get you in the mood to talk about romance, huh?) Despite the irregular circumstances surrounding the survey, some tidbits brought to the surface were very eye-opening. Here are a few simple but meaningful ways to keep the connection going in the long run, according to the results: 

• Always having your partner's back (according to 50% of participants) 
• Having a similar sense of humor (41%)
• Admitting when you are wrong (51%)
• Having regular sex (32%) 
• A similar sex drive (24%)

If these responses are anything to go by, the need to get frisky has increased. In 2017, the Archives of Sexual Behavior found that adults typically enjoy sex 54 times per year, which is about once per week and four times per month. Looks like there are a few weeks that pull double duty nowadays...

Important takeaways from the survey...

Though all couples have wondered how often to have sex, or even how long should sex last, the important thing to take away is that you and your S.O. are on the same page, sexually and otherwise. Communication is key, and that magic number should be what works well for you both. 

"The pressure stems from wanting to 'keep up with the Jones' or wanting to feel 'normal' or have a 'normal' sex life," Marla Renee Stewart, MA, sexpert for Lovers previously told My Imperfect Life. "However, you really don't know what is going on in people's relationships, so it's best not to compare yours to anyone else's."

Likewise, Josh Porter from adult toy retailer Romantix doesn't believe duration or frequency should be calculated--it's all about what feels right. 

"No one should feel pressured to have sex for a certain amount of time," he told us. "Sex should last as long as the participants feel aroused."

If you are interested in making frisky time worthwhile, and not necessarily longer or more frequently, have a look at the tried and tested best sex toys for couples, fun foreplay ideas, and tips for sexual aftercare. 

We're a kink-positive bunch over here at My Imperfect Life—we're well-versed in bondage, aftercare and the best sex toys, after all—but new findings on the most popular fetish worldwide surprised even us. 

A new study by Joy Love Dolls, the leading supplier of life-like sex dolls, collated "reputable seed lists exploring the most popular sex fetishes, published in the last 12 months" with the help of Google search trends. "Each fetish was extracted, and a final list of 24 fetishes was refined," per the company. 

"Cultivating a healthy understanding of fetishes within consensual relationships can hugely enhance intimacy and pleasure within your relationship. As the search term ‘sex fetish’ has increased in searches by 82% over the past 30 days worldwide, it's essential to approach fetishes with an open mind, respect, and clear communication between those involved," says Melissa Stone, sex and relationship expert at Joy Love Dolls. 

"Whether it’s role play, BDSM or even using realistic sex dolls, what may seem unconventional to some is a source of excitement and fulfillment for others,” she adds.

So exactly which "source of excitement" is the most popular fetish in the world? Let's dive in.

These are the top 10 most popular fetishes in the world

Coming in at number one on Joy Love Dolls' sex fetish study is sadism, defined by the company as "infliction of physical or psychological suffering on another person to stimulate sexual excitement and orgasm," which had an average yearly search volume worldwide of 9,876,000. 

The other half of S&M, masochism—or "the tendency to derive sexual gratification from one's own pain or humiliation," either physically or verbally—took second place with a search volume of 6,600,000. In third, with more than five million searches, is CBT. No, not "cognitive behavioral therapy," but "cock and ball torture," the "application of pain or constriction to the penis or testicles."

The fourth top fetish might surprise you: it's claustrophobia—yes, that claustrophobia. "Sexual arousal by or interest in being confined in small spaces" clocked in at number four with a search volume of 3,612,000. And rounding out the top five is vicarphilia, a.k.a. "becoming aroused by other people's sexual stories, and living vicariously through them."

Check out the full top 10 of sexual fetishes from Joy Love Dolls' study below:

WFH sex, or getting busy when you're on the clock, is having a moment, so there's probably not going to be an incentive to return to the office anytime soon. 

We can't say we're surprised to hear this news, given that Lovehoney uncovered masturbating during work hours was on the rise. Now, it seems that people have decided to spice up their lunch breaks with a plus one. 

According to a new survey from TonerGiant one in eight Brits get down and dirty during the workday, and the couples most likely to participate in the off-duty activity are millennials. (And we thought Gen Z was the group in the midst of a sex boom...)

Some prefer a quick power nap while others take time to vape, but then there are those who crave some excitement. Well, guess it's hard to resist the release of oxytocin and dopamine from orgasms. Here's what to know before getting busy.

WFH sex tips you should *definitely* consider following

While we're all for breaks throughout the day, especially if home and the office are one and the same, sex might be a risky move between Zoom calls and updating Excel spreadsheets. Nevertheless, if the moment strikes, you and your partner should be prepared. Here's how to go about it. 

1. Watch the electronics

It goes without saying, but there's been an uptick in Zoom casualties since 2020, and it'd be awfully embarrassing to add sex to the list. It could even cost you a job. But if you can't resist the temptation despite the risks involved, make sure you're logged out of all apps and your computer is shut down. It's probably best to take the activities into another room away from your devices. And don't miss a meeting because of WFH sex—your boss might not know why you're offline, but it'd certainly be frowned upon.

2. Location, location, location

A recent study uncovered the best places in the house to have sex, and the bedroom didn't top the list, to our surprise. The bathroom was a fan-favorite because of the intensity couples felt and the uptick in their heartbeats while standing. But we wouldn't recommend getting in the shower if you have to be back on call in 20 minutes. 

3. Try something "quiet"

You might not necessarily want to bring that after-sex glow to the one-on-one with your manager, so if you're going to fool around while on break, keep things in check with sexperts' go-to quiet sex positions—they don't skimp on the pleasure, but they're not as...involved. 

"Although quiet sex can be tricky, it is a fact that quiet sex can often be much more intimate and exciting for those involved, as it becomes a secret in itself and something only you and your partner can enjoy," Charlotte Johnson, a sexpert at Mega Pleasure previously told us about getting busy in a full house. WFH sex sports a similar thrill.

4. Get assistance

If you want things to feel adventurous, but you can't miss that 2pm virtual desk-side, it might be a good idea to bring in a little help with the best sex toys for couples.

Enjoy your "lunch break"!

She used to be young and in love with Liam Hemsworth, but who's Miley Cyrus dating now?

After a year of new breakup songs and empowering "I can make it on my own" anthems—"Flowers" for the win!— Cyrus' track list had listeners revisit her past. But we're all curious about what's happening nowadays, considering she tends to keep her romantic life private. Does she have any intel for her fanbase? Let's dig in.

Who's Miley Cyrus dating now?

Miley is currently dating Maxx Morando, a musician six years her junior. 

"We got put on a blind date," she told British Vogue in May 2023. “Well, it was blind for me and not really for him. I thought, 'The worst that can happen is I leave.'"

She didn't, though. Perhaps an unexpected pairing, it's one that still seems to be going strong. In their time together, they've been spotted out and about in L.A.—with plenty of kissing to keep them going—vacationed to Mexico, celebrated milestone birthdays (Cyrus' 30th), and performed together on New Years Eve 2022. 

Sources told  E! News, "Miley is really happy. Everyone in her family loves them together and thinks they mesh really well."

Miley Cyrus' dating history

Though her romantic life might've been a little more public than it is now, Cyrus has certainly had a lot of memorable connections throughout the years. Here are a few of her most notable relationships...

Liam Hemsworth (on and off from 2010-2019)

After meeting on the set of The Last Song in 2010, the two were inseparable. But they hit a rough patch around 2012-2013, causing a split and a bit of chaos on Cyrus' end. (Yes, it's been 10 years since her controversial VMA's performance.) They reunited and eventually tied the knot in 2018, only to split about a year or so later. 

Despite the heartbreak, Cyrus told British Vogue she wouldn't change anything about the person who was arguably her first love.  

"I wouldn’t erase my story or want it to be erased," she said. "Having an interesting life makes for interesting storytelling."

Cody Simpson (2019)

The friends-to-lovers romance got underway shortly after Cyrus' divorce, and though they didn't date for more than a year, it appears the two ended things on a positive note. 

"Like everybody else at this age, we're just deciding who we wanna be with our lives, what we wanna do with our lives," Cyrus said after their split in 2020. "And so, don't make it some drama story if next week we're out hanging out or getting pizza. We've been friends for 10 years and we're gonna continue to be friends."

Kaitlynn Carter (2019)

"Hot Girl Summer" became a thing thanks to Cyrus and Carter's 2019 relationship and steamy Italian getaway. Though things seemed hot and heavy at the time, the two ultimately parted ways. 

A source told People, "They've been friends forever and were there for each other when they were both getting separated, [but] they're just not in a romantic relationship anymore."

Stella Maxwell (2015)

Cyrus crossed paths with the Victoria's Secret model in 2015 and enjoyed getting to know one another, and taking snaps for the 'Gram, but ultimately, the two did not venture into long-term territory. 

“We met through mutual friends via Instagram, which is where Cheyne [Thomas] contacted me about taking some photos. It’s been a trip to hang out and see a little of their world. Felt very organic and right," Maxwell told V Magazine. 

Patrick Schwarzenegger (2014)

After first crossing paths in 2011, when Cyrus was at the beginning stages of her relationship with Hemsworth, Schwarzenegger took notice of the singer. But it wasn't until the two were both single for a brief stint in 2014 that they were able to pursue something. They dated for only five months.

Who else was Miley Cyrus tied to?

Though we have intel on a long list of Cyrus' romantic partners, she was also rumored to have been seeing producer Mike Will Made-It, Jared Leto, and way back when—in the midst of her Disney days—Joe Jonas.

Did Charli and Landon break up? Should fans be concerned about the radio silence as of late? 

Landon Barker, pop-punk heir and son of Travis Barker, first met TikToker extraordinaire Charli D'Amelio in the summer of 2022 and went full-in on the relationship effect. The quintessential Gen Z pair seemed inseparable, posing together for selfies, mimicking lyrics on TikTok, and participating in joint interviews. 

For Mini V, the two were photographed in a glitzy yet goth shoot that seemed to emulate their energy to a T. While discussing aspirations, favorite qualities, and what they love most, Barker said: "I have a few different mottos I like to live by but I think the one that has been the most prevalent recently would be, 'Do what you love with the people you love.' At least in my life, this line of thinking keeps me motivated to pursue my dreams and passions since I’m pursuing them with the people who mean the most to me."

D'Amelio undoubtedly means a lot to the up-and-coming musician, but what's going on with their relationship as of late? Here's everything we know. 

Did Charli and Landon break up?

Although the two have been relatively quiet on social media—at least with their other half in tow—we don't believe that they're in the midst of a breakup. They still have imagery and photos of one another on their respective pages, and their latest postings were from June 2023, where they're seen getting cozy presumably after one of Barker's shows. Meanwhile, the Blink-182 mini-me posted videos on his TikTok hanging out with both D'Amelio and her older sister, Dixie. 

Given that the two seem preoccupied—Barker gearing up for the release of new music, D'Amelio dancing and teaming up with various brands—we're assuming it's all peachy keen where their relationship is concerned. Plus, Kourtney Kardashian took to Instagram in early August to give Charli's new bob 'do the seal of approval. 

Charli and Landon's relationship timeline

Summer '22 was the summer of love for this budding pair. They sparked dating rumors after a few cuddly snaps together and made things official in their relationship timeline in August 2022 when Barker posted an Instagram Story with D'Amelio with the caption "My ❤️ @charlidamelio."

In actuality, big sis Dixie did the honors of setting them up and suggested that Charli strike up a chat with the musician. And Charli claims the meeting was the first time she finally felt truly herself. 

"I've put what everyone thinks of me above my own happiness and this was the first time that I really listened to my heart," she said, according to US Weekly. 

Since getting together, the two have stepped out to attend one of Kylie Jenner's product launch parties; Barker supported D'Amelio's Dancing With the Stars gig; they arrived as a couple at the 2023 Grammys, and Barker presented a Nickelodeon's Kids Choice Award to his lady. 

Surely, we'll be given an update—likely over TikTok, of course—about the duo's next adventures. Stay tuned and watch this space for developments!

The Reneé Rapp dating situation might've been a hot topic of conversation in The Sex Lives of College Girls—at least when it came to her fictional romantic pursuits—but what's happening off-camera? 

The actor is stepping away from Mindy Kaling's coming-of-age series, kickstarting her music career, and falling in love—something she promised she'd keep to herself, despite the raw and personal lyrics that appear on her album, Snow Angel (out now). 

"I swore up and down I would never be in a public relationship and then I just found someone who I really loved and made me feel really safe and comfortable,' she told People. "So then I started posting with this person, and then it became a whole thing. Now I'm like, f**k, I have to deal with the consequences of my own actions of publicly co-signing someone as my partner."

So who is she romantically tied to? Let's take a look.

Who is Reneé Rapp dating now?

It appears as if Reneé Rapp had fallen in love months ago, though we are only recently learning about her relationship with TikToker Alissa Carrington, right as the new chapter in her professional career is taking off.  

The two have taken to TikTok to post fun and flirty videos and sweet birthday messages starting in late 2022. This is initially what caused romance rumors to spread, and the fact that Rapp noted in an interview that brown, curly hair—just like Carrington's—is her "kryptonite." Now the 23-year-old performer felt as though she was in a place where she could comfortably let the public in, though she admits in her People interview it can be pretty difficult at times. 

"I see so much about my love life online. Some of it is totally funny and doesn't affect me, and others of it really, really f---ing hurts my feelings," she told the outlet. "Trying to figure out how to deal with it."

It does seem as if life imitates art, as Rapp regularly opens up about her sexuality lyrically and artistically in her work. However, she did initially have concerns about her role in The Sex Lives of College Girls and wondered if she could do the role justice. 

She told The Cut: "I literally hated myself for months because I'm bisexual. I had a boyfriend at the time, and I was being very homophobic to myself. I was like, 'I don't deserve to be doing this. I'm not gay enough.'"

Now, with tracks like "The Wedding Song," which details her first true love, and "Pretty Girls," which she describes to Apple Music as "the universal gay-girl experience," Rapp is being more forthcoming about her romantic experiences, and fans are here for it. Her ethereal pop sound is similar to Billie Eilish and Lana Del Ray, but plenty of her new songs have an upbeat vibe. Either way, one or all of her new songs are bound to show up on your Spotify Receiptify and such. 

Who is Alissa Carrington? 

The 27-year-old Instagram and YouTube star from California rose to fame on social media, particularly thanks to the channel they ran alongside their now-ex, Samantha Michele Miani, where they both hosted Q&As, presented challenges, and such. Now Carrington appears to be stepping into the modeling sphere, too. 

What's next for the buzzy new pair? We'll have to wait to find out!

Everyone's curious about where Amber Heard is now—and who she's spending time with. 

Though Netflix's Depp V. Heard revisits a very chaotic and toxic time in the actor's life, viewers are seemingly looking ahead after the doc's August 16 release. Is Heard taking on more films? What's going on with her daughter? What's her net worth? And, of course, who is the Aquaman actor tied to romantically? Let's dig into specifics.

Is Amber Heard dating anyone? 

At this time, it appears Heard—who recently relocated to Spain with her 2-year-old daughter, Oonagh Paige—is not seeing anyone. If she is, she's keeping the relationship out of the public eye. 

The last person she was tied to was Bianca Butti in 2022, though it's unclear where the two stand now. Judging from her recent viral interview with Deadline, Heard is seemingly shifting her focus. Her main priorities are taking care of her child and carrying on with her career. 

"You know, I just want to make movies and be appreciated, as an actress. I don’t want to have to be crucified to be appreciated as one," she told the publication. 

Amber Heard's relationship history:

Though she is arguably most well-known for a chaotic relationship with her now-ex-husband Johnny Depp, Heard was tied to other heavyweights in the entertainment industry, and one very famous billionaire. 

Bianca Butti (2020)

Heard had sparked romance rumors with the filmmaker early on in 2020 and likely quarantined with her, according to People. Though they were spotted getting affectionate—and Butti supported Heard throughout her trial—things seemingly cooled off when Heard welcomed her daughter in 2021. 

However, they were spotted together in late 2022, perhaps rekindling their relationship. It's also possible that the two never stopped seeing each other, either. We likely won't know anything for certain until Heard acknowledges her status. 

Andrés Muschietti (2019)

Rumors surfaced that Heard was tied to director Andrés Muschietti, but the romance apparently ended as quickly as it began. They were spotted out and about in Los Angeles throughout the course of 2019...until they weren't.  

Vito Schnabel (2018)

Heard and Schnabel, an American art dealer, spent time getting to know one another while in New York City in 2018. Eventually, they took their love across the pond for a game of Wimbledon and a Swiss getaway to celebrate the New Year, People further reports. Not much is known regarding their breakup, but sources like US Weekly claim distance factored into their demise.

Elon Musk (2016-2018)

It's difficult to forget a billionaire's dating history, but Elon Musk's romance with Heard is oftentimes overlooked. Though they were in a film together—2013's Machete Kills, which featured a cameo from Musk—things didn't heat up until 2016 when they crossed paths at the Met Gala. Depp, however, alleged his ex-wife cheated on him with Musk. 

The exes parted ways amicably after a few on-again, off-again moments. She told The Hollywood Reporter: "Elon and I had a beautiful relationship, and we have a beautiful friendship now, one that was based on our core values."

Johnny Depp (2011-2015)

The Rum Diary costars met in 2009, but were still involved in other relationships. Two years later, they took their friendship to a more serious level and eventually got engaged in 2014. But after being married for a little over a year, the two parted ways. 

In 2018, Heard penned an op-ed for The Washington Post, and though she doesn't mention Depp by name, she insisted she was "a public figure representing domestic abuse." That in turn began their lengthy legal battle that resulted in a highly publicized and chaotic trial in 2022. 

Tasya van Ree (2005-2010)

Tasya van Ree was a pivotal partner for Heard, as she helped the star come to terms with her sexuality in the public eye. 

"Coming out did impact my career, it was difficult. It was not easy," Heard said at The Economist‘s Pride & Prejudice Summit in 2017, according to People. "I did that even though everyone told me it would end my career, without a doubt."

Towards the end of their relationship, abuse allegations were made against Heard, who was arrested for striking Van Ree at an airport, something the photographer insists was "over-sensationalized."

In a statement, the artist said: "Amber is a brilliant, honest and beautiful woman and I have the utmost respect for her. We shared five wonderful years together and remain close to this day."

Though it's not clear where they stand now, it seems this was a pivotal point in Heard's romantic journey.

Catch all three parts of the Depp v. Heard docuseries, now on Netflix.

Danika Tanya has entered the chat. 

The content creator is seemingly attached to Jason Oppenheim, Selling Sunset star and founder of the luxury real estate company, The Oppenheim Group. But what's happening between the two, exactly? 

Though we're still waiting for Selling Sunset season 7 to hit Netflix—which is likely to address Oppenheim's split from Marie-Lou Nurk, a model he met while abroad in Greece in 2022—it seems the reality star and realtor is moving on in the love department. Here's everything we know. 

Jason Oppenheim spotted getting cozy with Danika Tanya

While on a gorgeous getaway to Saint-Tropez, France, Oppenheim was spotted with an equally gorgeous female companion, Danika Tanya. Onlookers caught the two sharing a smooch in the water and cozying up to one another while cooling off. 

At the time of publication, it appears he's keeping his status on the down low. He has not publicly addressed his new romance, nor does Tanya appear in the realtor's photo carousel while vacationing. (He posted images to Instagram on Monday, August 21.) Page Six, however, caught the duo in plenty of smoochy situations, Aperol Spritz at hand. 

Who is Danika Tanya?

Danika Tanya is a content creator with 11,000 Instagram followers and 37,000 TikTok followers. Her feed is filled with many a selfie in a variety of beautiful locations, including Italy, Mexico, and the UK, as well as shots of her fur baby, Fernie. 

Tanya was seemingly romantically attached to someone earlier in the year, as evidenced on Instagram, but it seems they've gone their separate ways, and he's not tagged in any of the images. 

Jason's ex Marie-Lou Nurk is also moving on

Apparently, these exes think alike. Marie-Lou Nurk was just spotted getting cozy with someone new, also in Saint Tropez a week before Oppenheim made his way abroad. Her new beau, judging from photos, is "Ronan RL" (according to Instagram) and he identifies as an "Entrepreneur, CEO, Business angel, venture capital" (also according to Instagram). 

Nurk has been a little more forthcoming about her new relationship than Oppenheim, as she's sharing cheeky snaps of her vacation with her current flame with her followers. The group of photos of her getaway in France with Ronan is a screenshot of a text message that reads, "You're my favourite secret." Oo, la, la! 

Though Oppenheim and Nurk appear to be moving forward, the Netflix reality star mentioned that they were on solid terms. Whether or not that's still the case is TBD. 

“While we still love and care about each other very much the distance between us has proven to be too great a challenge to overcome,” Oppenheim wrote on Instagram, announcing his breakup with Nurk. “We remain close friends and continue to talk often and support each other and we want the very best for one another. We thank everyone for their support throughout our relationship."

We'll be sure to keep you posted if any additional steamy photos/tropical vacations emerge, so watch this space. In the meantime, we'll be patiently waiting for that new season of Selling Sunset. (Lookin' at you, Netflix.)

A picture says a thousand words, but apparently, couple selfies don't always tell the whole story.

While we might come across affectionate moments between a pair on our newsfeeds, there could be plenty of red flags behind the smiles. According to a new study from Shotkit, couples who are unhappy in their relationship post images of their significant other more frequently than the ones who are satisfied, contrary to popular belief. 

So, what does this somewhat unsettling study mean, exactly? Here's what you need to know before you start searching for the perfect breakup line and delete the Instagram app from your phone.

What did Shotkit's study on couple selfies indicate?

Roughly 2,000 couples between the ages of 18 to 50 were surveyed, and per ShotKit's findings, those S.O.s who post three or more couple selfies per week on social media are a staggering 128 percent unhappier than those who keep a low profile. What's more, out of all of those who are snapping images constantly, only 10 percent of them are actually feeling fulfilled in their romantic lives compared to 46 percent of those who keep posts few and far between.

So, what's the reason behind these less-than-optimistic stats? The study suggests that trust could play a factor in the need for constant posts. (Is a case of mentionitis or soft cheating to blame?) Maybe the 'Grammer Extraordinaire is trying to prove something to followers. Perhaps it's an attempt to push aside issues that are *really* the root of the problem in the relationship.

All relationships are different, and we can't just make assumptions from looking at happy photos, or lack thereof. 

So, if you post couple selfies, are you doomed?

While the numbers from Shotkit's research might not be what we would've liked to see, does it mean all of those snaps on our pages need to be taken down? Are we wrong for wanting to share an exciting experience with those we're close to (virtually, at least)? No. 

If your partner asks you to "say cheese," it doesn't automatically mean you're doomed. Regardless of social media posting habits, the #1 relationship deal-breaker, according to dating expert Jacqueline Fae, is staying true to yourself and the person you love.

"Authenticity is really your best friend in finding a lasting relationship," she previously told My Imperfect Life. 

And how do we ensure we're authentic with our loved ones? Open and honest dialogue.

 "By communicating your needs and priorities, you are creating clarity about when they can expect going forward so that they have confidence in who you are and what they can expect from you," Laurel House, a relationship expert with eharmony previously said. 

But, perhaps more than ever, we should push aside our selfie intake, disregard dating trends, and not worry so much about what others think. Dating expert Rikki Dymond said we can get rid of these types of headaches by just trusting our gut.

"We really just need to dive deep within our own heart, know exactly what we want, need and deserve," she said. "There might be roadblocks, and that's ok. Try to take that with a grain of salt. No matter what goals we have in our life, we're going to have issues. Don't let those sidetrack you." 

All in all, the study might've been a little frightening, but don't let it deter you from taking a cool snap with your boo while on vacation or during a fun evening out. A picture says 1,000 words and plenty of them are good!

Who is Logan Lerman dating? The internet's feathers are about to be ruffled because its object of infatuation is very much off the market. 

On Sunday, August 20, a new photo of the Bullet Train star dropped and sent fans into an absolute tailspin. In comparison to Kylie Jenner and Timothee Chalamet's alleged vacation photos, this one is rather simple: just the actor standing outside of a bodega in a long-sleeved tee. Even still, it was enough to make everyone online lose their minds.  

Though he's been affectionately considered the internet's boyfriend, who is Lerman actually tied to IRL? Here's what you need to know about the star's love life. 

Who is Logan Lerman dating?

Unlike the Emma Watson boyfriend news or Saoirse Ronan's dating life, Logan Lerman isn't one to shy away from his romance with artist Ana Corrigan. But it does seem like a majority of fans aren't terribly aware of his romantic status—either that or they don't want to accept the fact that he's taken. Let's take a gander into the specifics. 

1. Ana Corrigan (2020-present)

Ana Corrigan and Logan Lerman have been an item for some time. She is a Parsons-educated artist working primarily with clay, printed matter, and paint, according to her website. You might recall that her ceramic lamps had a viral moment on Instagram in 2022, in turn, spotlighting the up-and-coming creator. (See what we did there?) 

“It’s a cool way of bridging the gap between art with a conceptual or sculptural focus, and something that can be used to light up a personal space,” she revealed to British Vogue about her lamps. “I feel honored to know that my work exists in this way.” 

She and Lerman make somewhat infrequent but sweet nods to their relationship on social media, giving fans a little inside look at their relationship. In late 2021, Lerman took to Instagram to wish his leading lady a happy birthday: 

"Yesterday was my best friend’s birthday," he captioned a carousel of snowy images. "She truly makes every day better and brighter. I wake up every morning feeling like the luckiest guy in the world knowing I have this one in my life. This bday we learned how to ski. Here’s to many more adventures together. Love you, Anita."

This year, Corrigan posted a video of her fella in the sunset with a cute birthday post of her own: "HBD logie 🎈 I’m obsessed with you and your hair is an inspiration to us all."

2. Alexandra Daddario (2014-2015)

Though there's never been confirmation about the two Percy Jackson co-stars dating, we heard rumors in 2014 that the two were actually to be wed. However, the newly betrothed called it quits roughly a year later in August 2015. Their romance was arguably more under-wraps than Lerman's current relationship with Corrigan. 

In June 2022, Daddario tied the knot with TV and film producer Andrew Form, known for his work in the horror genre. 

"He was also on a walk, and we passed each other downtown. He turned back and said 'hi' just as I was turning around to glance back at him. I laughed and said 'hi,' and then we both laughed about how we were the only two people on what is normally an incredibly busy street, and he asked if he could take me to dinner," she told Vogue about how they met. 

In the meantime, until more details emerge, you can count on the internet to wait not-so-patiently for Lerman's next beautiful photo to drop!

Sources suspect a tropical Kylie Jenner and Timothée Chalamet vacation is currently underway, despite the breakup rumors that surfaced at the beginning of August '23. 

The Kylie Jenner and Timothée Chalamet dating news broke early this spring, much to fans' surprise—untyping at its finest. Though the two have not been spotted out together publicly, onlookers are piecing together clues on social media to uncover whether or not they're out and about abroad. Hmm...

Let's do a bit of sleuthing to see what's happening, shall we?

Are Kylie Jenner and Timothée Chalamet vacationing together?

On Sunday, August 20, Mr. Wonka himself posted an Instagram thirst trap, quite literally. Along with the caption "summer24!" he posed swimming in what appeared to be a cave-like area. But they weren't selfies: someone had seemingly snapped the pics. Unsurprisingly, a location wasn't specified. 

Then, when we turn over to the beauty mogul on August 20, she posed in an off-brand low-key white tank and jeans while enjoying a sun-soaked, verdant area overlooking mountains. Some onlookers believe she might be in Italy, especially considering the next batch of photos to appear on her account included family snaps while making homemade spaghetti bolognese. (Props to them—it looked delicious!)  Let's not forget about her bikini-clad beach shot, either, which was also surrounded by caves. Lastly, a blurry pap picture is circulating, seemingly of the two in hiding while in Paris, but it cannot be confirmed or denied. 

So...are they both abroad together? Is Mr. Chalamet part of the Kar-Jenner excursion? Is Kylie taking time away from her family getaway to spend with her new flame? None of the pictures are geo-tagged, so we cannot say for certain. Whether or not they're away, the pros do insist they're keeping a low profile while getting to know one another. According to reports from TMZ, "Our sources say everything is cool between the two. They’re still an item and any reports that say otherwise are false."

Those on social seem to think Kylie's change in appearance has something to do with her (potential) other half: "Kylie in her Timothee era," one Instagram user commented. Another chimed in with, "Switching up her style since she's been dating Timothy."

Twitter reacts to Kylie and Timmy's romantic vacay

Of course, it didn't take long for social media users to chime in with their thoughts on the potential getaway. "No bc both Timmy and Kylie both posting their holidays on the same day rlly feels like a soft launch," one eagle-eyed Twitter user posted. 

Even if fans haven't caught the couple out and about, and are still not entirely convinced of their union—or vacation—you best believe everyone's keeping a watchful eye for any social media slip-ups and/or pap shots. We'll keep you posted!

While scrolling your FYP, you've inevitably stumbled upon relationship timeline explainers that have made you question everything about your love life.  

There's no need to fret—we've been there, too. We've wondered when and how to have the defining the relationship talk so that we could advance the situationship...or what we thought might've been a situationship. We've encountered mighty-long talking stages before actually meeting in real life. And yes, we've done more analyzing than we physically thought possible. 

So, if you're trying to place yourself in a timeline and wondering how to move on from one phase to the next, we'll let you in on a little secret: don't. According to dating expert Jacqueline Fae, things don't have to be so complicated.

Why relationship timeline videos on TikTok shouldn't make you stressed

So, you've told your friends you're "dating" when you're simply flirting with matches on Hinge. You've thrown out the affectionate boyfriend/girlfriend title when you're only dating. The terminology can be confusing, and at times, we tend to blur lines. But why is there a need to define every. single. little. behavior while on the road to a relationship? 

"Every relationship is different and to categorize them like that is a bit unfair," said Fae.

Instead of worrying where you and your match fall on a line graph, just pay attention to your connection and growing it, if you so choose.

How to move on your own relationship timeline

So, you use the terms "dating" and "relationships" interchangeably and you're not quite sure what the talking phase is actually all about. It's okay. Put specifics out of your mind and move the way in which you feel comfortable. Here's how:

1. Listen to your gut

Sometimes we just *know* when something is right...and when it's not. Don't let external factors sway your decision-making.

"A lot of people are afraid they're going to make a mistake, and that overcomplicates a lot of things," Fae said. "We get heady instead of using our heart: 'Now I'm going for this,' or 'Now this is a situationship'... If you would use your heart instead of your head you'd have a clearer idea if someone is right for you and that would eliminate some of those stages."

2. Be authentic

No matter what you're looking for, the only way to go about a connection successfully is to be 100 percent candid. Express your desires and don't let someone negate them. Show your passions and don't be ashamed of what makes you, you. Remember when your mother told you not to cave to anyone? She was right. 

"Authenticity is really your best friend in finding a lasting relationship," Fae said. "If something feels really good, don't wait those three days so you don't look overly aggressive—let them know you want to see them again."

Of course, don't declare your love after a 45-minute coffee run, and don't love bomb when you don't even know the person, but it's OK to express excitement about the possibilities. Isn't that the best part?!

3. Give your connection a chance

Yes, it's okay to date around to see what works for you, but if you feel a connection with someone, don't be afraid to acknowledge it. 

"If you're busy still swiping on the app, there's always going to be someone who could possibly be better and it's going to drive you nuts," Fae said. "When you date someone and you want to see them again, you might want to give that person a fair chance so you can see if there really is something there."

Before you stress about timelines, ticking clocks, etc., etc., take a step back and move at a pace that works well for you. Define things on your terms. There's no need to follow anyone else's lead but your own.

Don't let the 'Summer Fling Scaries' overshadow the pleasures of PSL and apple-picking season—especially since it's best enjoyed cuddling up to someone special.

Just because autumn is approaching doesn't mean your summer romance has to come to a close. Dating trends like wanderlove and expirationships led us to believe that singles were only in search of something temporary during those warm-weather months, but contrary to popular belief, you don't have to shelf your relationship the way you do your shorts and bikinis. 

For those who are not quite ready to part ways with their other, allow eharmony's dating expert, Minaa BLMSW, to help give you the confidence to keep the connection going well into the fall—and beyond.

What are the 'summer fling scaries', exactly?

Similar in premise to the Sunday Scaries, the 'Summer Fling Scaries' deals with our fear of our relationships coming to a close once vacation wraps up. But the good news is that it doesn't have to!

How do you keep your summer fling going strong?

We know you hate to think about the dreaded "defining the relationship" talk, but you're going to have to get a sense of clarity before moving forward. Where does your partner stand? Where do you stand? Talk about it!

"If you cannot even ask someone to define the relationship, what happens when more significant issues arise that you need to discuss," Minaa asked. "Be willing to do the hard work, and if you do not get the clarity you need, it is important to ask yourself if you can continue in the relationship."

In any type of situation, the only way you're going to progress is through honesty. You have to be open when expressing your needs, and if they cannot be met, perhaps you're not spending time with someone who is an appropriate fit. And if the partner you're with cannot respect the fact that you want something permanent, it might be time to find someone with more like-minded values.

"Communication is necessary to help you gain clarity about your relationship and make sure you’re on the same page about the next steps," Minaa added. "It’s also worth remembering that dating is a process and a journey that you can always embark on, so if you find that your partner is not interested in moving forward, don’t shy away from putting yourself back out there."

If you're thinking about pursuing something on a more serious level, make sure to pay attention to your partner's needs and actively listen to what they're looking for. Minaa also suggested showing compassion and appreciation towards your other half, because if you approach the relationship talk from a place of hostility, things won't progress the way you envisioned. 

But above all, whatever you're dealing with in the love department, stay true to yourself and listen to your gut (and heart). You can handle whatever comes your way.

Another player has entered the #Scandoval phenomenon: love addiction. But does the romantic fixation have any legitimacy?

According to Raquel Leviss, it's the reason that the former Vanderpump Rules star became all-consumed in her affair with Tom Sandoval, an indiscretion that has gone down in reality TV infamy and caused a media firestorm in its wake. On Wednesday, August 16, Leviss sat down for a talk on Bethenny Frankel's "Just B" podcast to discuss the relationship, her earnings from Bravo, and what transpired during her time in a mental health facility. 

"It took me a while to accept, but I learned about love addiction and it's a real thing. It's where you confuse intensity for intimacy," she told Frankel. 

She also revealed why she decided to seek help: "The reason why I wanted to go to a treatment facility was to understand my behaviors. And my goal was to really get down to the bottom of, 'OK, why am I choosing men that are unavailable? Why do I keep finding myself in unhealthy relationships?'"

So, what should we know about love addiction and its power? We spoke to dating experts to find out. 

What is 'love addiction,' exactly?

"Love addiction" can also be used interchangeably with "pathological love," and it's just as it sounds. 

"In my opinion, love addiction is a new term for an old pattern of overly excessive, unhealthy, obsessive feelings and actions towards a romantic interest," says Maria Sullivan, dating expert and vice president of Dating.com. "Love addiction entails one person expressing emotions so intensely that they’re seemingly out of their own control."

According to PsychCentral, love addiction is not "recognized as a clinical term and cannot be medically diagnosed." Likewise, Psychology Today echoes the sentiment but notes that the behavior oftentimes "permeates one's life" and could potentially be the result of impulsivity and novelty-seeking.

Regardless of where you stand on the technicalities, most people can agree that such an obsessive feeling truly has the power to do damage. So how do you break free of the toxicity?

How to break free of love addiction 

When you change who you are fundamentally to accommodate an over-the-top relationship, the most important thing to do is take a breather.

"The first step is realizing that you have an issue and accepting it and then once you realize it, then you can work on it," said dating expert Jacqueline Fae. 

Here's how to go about doing that. 

1. Love yourself first

 As wonderful as it is to feel excited about a relationship, you cannot just prioritize your partner; you have to be concerned with yourself, too. 

"The reason why we have love addiction is because we're not loving ourselves at that moment and we're loving someone too much and they're filling the void," Fae said. 

You are worthy of compassion, so don't forget to spread the love and not just hone in on your partner. 

2. Make time for things you love

As mentioned, love addiction has the ability to "permeate" one's everyday routine. Don't let your romance become all-encompassing; remember all of the things you love and make time for them. 

When you realize you're [obsessing] that's when you've got to start doing something for yourself: going to yoga, taking yourself to lunch, going to the spa. Do something for you that makes you happy," Fae added.

3. Set boundaries

Breakups are hard on everyone, but when dealing with a partner that could be emotionally harmful, it's best to split—and stick to it. 

"A toxic partner may also attempt to keep you on the hook and drag you back into it, so when deciding to end a toxic relationship, set rules for yourself when it comes to contact with your ex and the types of conversations that you will and will not have with each other," Sullivan suggests.

4. Lean on a support system

Never lose sight of the friendships and familial connections that add meaning to your life, no matter how wonderful you think your romance might be. It's never okay to isolate yourself from the people you love, and you'll realize this is especially true when you need someone to lean on. 

"Before the breakup, identify a strong support system of friends or family and plan to rely on them when needed," Sullivan suggests. "This is a great way to stay strong in your decision amid emotional pressure and turbulence with a toxic ex. 

She adds, "Having at least one loved one that will put you in check and remind you of the negative aspects of the relationship can be extremely helpful if you’re having trouble moving on."

He's an Internet boyfriend, but is Paul Mescal dating anyone IRL? 

The 27-year-old Irish actor has become one of Hollywood's most in-demand names after his breakthrough performance as Connell Waldron in the BBC/Hulu adaptation of Sally Rooney's bestselling novel, Normal People. Since then he's been nominated for an Oscar for his heartbreaking turn in Aftersun and will next be seen in high-profile flicks like the sci-fi thriller Foe opposite Saoirse Ronan and as the lead of the big Gladiator sequel. 

But while we've got plenty of scoop on the actor's professional business, it's his personal dealings that fans are curious about. What is the Maynooth-born hunk's current relationship status? We dig into all of the romantic rumors. 

Who is Paul Mescal dating?

At the moment, Paul Mescal is single—at least publicly. It's not exactly surprising that the actor would want to keep his current relationship status under wraps, given how scrutinized his previous engagement and subsequent break-up with singer Phoebe Bridgers were. 

“I definitely feel the temptation to say the status of my whatever—that will always be there,” the actor told Vanity Fair in February. “But the temptation still exists to be like, ‘Shut the f**k up. This is my life. This is what's going on’ or ‘This is what's not going on.’”

A deep dive into those Paul Mescal romance rumors

1. Paul Mescal and Keelin Moncrieff

You always have to take a blind item with a grain of salt, but gossip queen DeuxMoi is usually on the money when it comes to celebrity dating news. In an August blind item, the social media account posted the following spotting: "Saw Paul Mescal looking cosy in Luckys Meath Street, Dublin with Irish influencer Keelin Moncrieff. She has now unfollowed her boyfriend Jay too."

So who is Keelin Moncrieff? She's a 24-year-old social media influencer hailing from Dublin, who began on Snapchat before moving platforms to Youtube. She co-hosts the podcast Same But Different, which tackles everything from toxic friendships to period sex. 

2. Paul Mescal and Daisy Edgar-Jones

Romance rumors have swirled for years between the two Normal People co-stars, who have parlayed their acclaimed performances in the Hulu drama into a lasting bond. 

When Mescal won a BAFTA for his role as Connell in the series in 2021, he dedicated the award to Edgar-Jones: “I want to dedicate this to Daisy, who is the best scene partner and one of the best people I know.” 

The actress has responded in kind, calling Mescal a "friend for life" since their meeting on the show, and the two have regularly been seen out and about together, like when they adorably dressed up as Fleabag and Hot Priest for Halloween last year. 

However, any romantic undertones to their friendship are seemingly just fans' wishful thinking. 

3. Paul Mescal and Phoebe Waller-Bridge

Not to be confused with Mescal's famous musician ex, Phoebe Waller-Bridge—the brilliant English actress-writer behind Fleabag, Killing Eve and Crashing, among others—was spotted sharing a cigarette and a laugh with Mescal outside London's National Theatre on Wednesday, August 9 after taking in a performance of Lucy Prebble's play The Effect.

However, it's very doubtful anything romantic is going on between these two: Waller-Bridge has been in a relationship with Irish-English playwright Martin McDonagh since 2017, so this is likely just a case of two celebrity friends running into each other. Plus, they have a close buddy in common: actor Andrew Scott, who famously portrayed Hot Priest in Fleabag and will star opposite Mescal in Andrew Haigh’s upcoming adaptation of the 1987 Taichi Yamada novel Strangers.

4. Paul Mescal and Saoirse Ronan

News of this talented Irish twosome portraying husband and wife onscreen—in the upcoming science fiction thriller Foe—had fans riled up on social media, but any romance between these two will be saved for the camera, as Saoirse Ronan has been dating Scottish actor Jack Lowden since 2020. 

Ronan did gush over her screen partner in his Harper’s Bazaar September 2023 cover story. “The first time I saw Paul act was in a commercial for Denny’s sausages in Ireland,” she told the outlet. “He’ll kill me for mentioning it, but—I’m not actually joking—that was the first time I went, ‘Oh, who’s that guy? He’s really good.’”

She's attached to Paul Mescal in Foe, but Saoirse Ronan's IRL dating situation isn't quite as clear off-screen. What's happening in the actress's romantic life? Good luck getting her to open up—she'd much prefer to leave fans guessing. 

The 29-year-old Oscar nominee (Lady Bird, Little Women) tends to keep things private (unlike her more forthright peers like Keke Palmer), but we're definitely curious about her relationship past, including her rumored current partnership with a certain British actor. 

We did some sleuthing so you don't have to. Here's everything we know about the Irish actor's love life. 

Saoirse Ronan dating history: a look back at her romances

Though there's not much that the star has publicly said about her own dating history, we did catch onto a common theme in Saoirse Ronan's romantic past: she tends to fall for co-stars. 

1. George MacKay (2013)

Though neither party has acknowledged their off-screen romance, Saoirse Ronan and George MacKay were allegedly an item after wrapping up filming on the 2013 romantic drama How I Live Now. 

"What happened during the course of the film, and I'm hoping that I'm not speaking out of turn, is that they fell in love and it was very easy," the film's director Kevin Macdonald told The Irish Mirror. "It was Saoirse's first proper boyfriend and, in a way, I think she was living through the same thing that the character is going through."

Guess life imitates art (even if she didn't want to necessarily admit it)!

2. Hozier (2017)

Once again, details about the courtship are murky, but Ronan was linked to Irish singer-songwriter Hozier in 2017 after appearing in the emotional music video for his song "Cherry Wine."

3. Jack Lowden (2020-present)

Ronan was first spotted getting cozy with 33-year-old Scottish actor Jack Lowden—who she co-starred with in the 2018 historical drama, Mary Queens of Scots—in London in early 2020. Though they seemed to have kept their business to themselves, Lowden did admit that he was excited to work with the actor on the film.

"She’s lovely . . . I can’t wait for that. It’s going to be fun," he said of filming, according to Page Six. In an Instagram account that has since been deleted, Lowden posted photos with Ronan, one of which was in the port town of Leith along the ocean. The caption read, "I sea ya good looking...".

Though neither party seems keen to discuss specifics, the twosome seemingly did publicly acknowledge their ongoing relationship by venturing out together for the Australian Open tennis competition in 2022. 

In a new Instagram page, Lowden captured a shot of Ronan in May 2023 during a visit to Seoul, South Korea. Though her own profile is not visible to the public, onlookers were quick to spot the beloved actor in his post. 

"Welcome Jack and Saoirse!!!" one user commented. Another chimed in with: "Wish you and Sersh enjoy all moments in Korea."

Perhaps we'll get a sneak peek of the two when they hit the upcoming red-carpet premiere of Foe alongside Ronan's co-star Paul Mescal? (Hey, we're being hopeful.) 

Until then, uncover the nitty gritty deets of the Olivia Rodrigo dating sitch, Emma Chamberlain's boyfriend status, and Kendall Jenner and Bad Bunny's latest romantic happenings.

Walking ahead of your partner doesn't *seem* like catastrophic behavior, but is it a make-it-or-break-it maneuver in a relationship? TikTok says yes. 

Dating experts on the platform seem to suggest waving the red flags and sounding the alarms when your S.O. is far ahead of you on the sidewalk. This not only indicates that you are both out of sync literally and figuratively, but it suggests your partner is unconcerned with your needs. 

Some people scrolling through social media are not quite convinced. Is the dating dealbreaker wreaking havoc on FYPs as serious as some profess it to be? We spoke to a dating expert and body language expert to figure out what the cause could be, so lace up your sneaks. (Don't worry, we kid!)

Is your S.O. walking ahead of you a red flag?

More often than not, a partner walking ahead of their significant other isn't necessarily trouble in paradise...at least not right away.

"So if your partner does this, or someone you're out on a date with does this, your first thought should be, 'What's going on with them?' Are they distracted? Are they stressed? Do they just have a lot of things on their mind," says body language expert Patti Wood. "The other thing to do is say, 'What's going on with the circumstances' so it doesn't trigger you immediately to make a judgment."

It could be an oversight; it could be that your partner is preoccupied; perhaps he or she just needs some space and it has absolutely nothing to do with your connection.

"There's a lot of reasons why a guy could be walking ahead of a woman that has nothing to do with the way he's valuing her or wanting to protect her, so we want to take it with a grain of salt," says dating expert Rikki Dymond. 

Both play devil's advocate and suggest that it's possible a partner walking in front of you could be a sign of protection or asserting their authority. If you're ahead, perhaps that means you're simply confident. There are plenty of scenarios to explore, and it's not always easy to pinpoint an explanation. (You might recall similar issues with the TikTok-famous Green Line Theory.) 

One thing that remains consistent, regardless of where you and your honey are while out and about, is how the speed makes you feel.

When to be concerned if your partner walks ahead of you?

If this is a consistent behavior you're going to want to take note. 

"The best thing that you can do is think how it makes you feel," Dymond says. "Is it something that's happening all the time? Is he always ahead and you're feeling like you're rushing to catch up and you're not important in his life? That's a conversation you want to have."

A time to reevaluate your connection is when you bring the situation up to your S.O. and insist that the behavior is making you upset and uncomfortable. If he or she decides to brush it off and not make any effort to change, that's when you'll want to take a step back. 

"That's a huge red flag and something to consider because he's not valuing your opinion or your feelings," Dymond adds. 

On the other hand, Wood says, "If you don't feel comfortable asking for what you want and need, that's an issue."

So while yes, it could indicate that relationship dynamics are off, walking ahead of someone isn't necessarily a black-and-white situation. Don't jump to conclusions, even if it seems your S.O. is jumping leaps and bounds ahead of you. There's more to assess before determining your connection is unsalvageable. 

Surviving a situationship—much like the connection itself—can be tricky. 

With a situationship, there's plenty of grey area and unknown territory that you don't get a chance to romantically explore. You get to enjoy all that comes with an intimate connection, but a lack of labels stops you from taking things to a more serious level. 

Though it's a trend that can quickly lead to dating burnout, it is possible to make this murky situation less stressful. Let the experts explain it all. 

For more about the phenomenon, have a look at our expert-backed advice for ending a situationship and what to avoid if you want a relationship, not a situationship.

The keys to surviving a situationship

You're diving in! You're seeing someone but still not quite in relationship territory. Here's what you need to do if you believe you're in a situationship.

1. Understand the situation

No pun intended, but assess the situation from the get-go. Is your partner looking for something short-term, or developing something serious? In situationships, it's likely the former. Narrow down the basics before things get going. 

"Knowing and understanding the very definition of a situationship can set you up for ‘survival," said Dr. Callisto Adams. "Know what your boundaries, expectations, and needs are. If you believe your boundaries are being respected, expectations and needs met, and dignity respected, then you’re on for a successful exploration of situationships."

2. Be realistic

Let's say you've met a match but know they might not potentially in it for the long haul. You might not be in it for the long haul. Perhaps it's all just a temporary case of wanderlove. Whatever the case might be, take off the rose-colored glasses and see the connection for what it is, not what you want it to be. Dating coach Jacqueline Fae is all for practicality. 

"Make sure that it is a real romantic relationship and be realistic about it," she previously told My Imperfect Life. "Sometimes it's not and it might not really go anywhere—and that's OK. Make sure you're on the same page before you invest your time and energy."

3. Communicate clearly

The only way to get on the same page with someone is to express what you're looking for. How are you supposed to know that the cutie on your morning commute is only looking for a summer romance if he or she doesn't say it, and vice versa? Candid talks weed away matches that don't work well. 

"Communication is considerate in any partnership, regardless of the level of commitment, so it’s best to make your level of attachment clear if you want to be considerate of the other person’s feelings," Maria Sullivan, a dating expert and vice president of Dating.com told us.

4. Don't change your values

Regardless of whether you want something to last forever or only until next month, that's totally fine. Do what works for you, and do not switch up your ideals in favor of someone else's choices. 

"Now, if [your match] acts the opposite of what you communicated despite them being aware of what you told them, then you know what the right thing to do is," Dr. Adams noted.

5. Know when it's time to move on

The thing about situationships is that they're temporary. Should the connection not be progressing the way you'd like, know when it's time to call it quits. Do not hold out in hopes for something that likely will not happen.

"If you know in your heart that this isn’t the right situation for you, you must follow that feeling," dating coach Rikki Dymond told us. "Sometimes those hard decisions come with guilt (especially if you care about the other person), but remind yourself of what you want, need and desire—and that you are worthy of having all of those things!"