As couples continue to explore new ways to keep their sex lives exciting, a rising trend known as shallowing is gaining attention — and even receiving nods of approval from sex experts.
But what exactly does this popular bedroom act involve?
Shallowing refers to a specific type of penetrative sex that focuses on shallow, teasing thrusts rather than deep penetration. The technique is designed to heighten anticipation, enhance sensitivity, and build arousal in a more controlled and connected way.
Though the term was reportedly first coined in literature in 2021, the act itself is far from new. In fact, it’s a timeless technique that many may already be familiar with — just without the trendy label.
Whether you’re curious or already experimenting with it, shallowing is about slowing down, tuning in, and creating a more intimate experience under the sheets.
It was a survey conducted by the Indiana University School of Medicine that propelled the sex trend into the limelight some four years ago.
The trend came to light in 2021 (Getty Stock Photo)
Out of over 4,000 women quizzed as part of the research, it was discovered that close 84 percent women in the US between the ages of 18 and 93 found ‘increased pleasure’ from this outercourse play – and that’s where shallowing was born.
The trend is a form of sexual play that typically involves lightly stimulating the entrance to the vagina, with those partaking in the trend using fingers, a toy, a penis or a tongue to pleasure their partner.
Speaking of the trend, Cecile Gasnault, brand director of sex toy company SmileMakers, told Glamour in 2022: “If you practice penetrative sex, you might have already found it pleasurable when the head of the penis creates pressure at the vaginal entrance before or at the very beginning of penetration.
“[It’s the] same with a toy or fingers. The idea is to go in only by a few centimeters.”
Meanwhile, sex expert Ness Cooper previously told the Metro: “Dirty talk can make the body release feel-good hormones, such as dopamine and oxytocin, which can not only turn us on but help us bond further with our sexual partners.
“Testosterone is also released which can help with arousal and orgasm.”
The sex trend ‘shallowing’ has been explained (Getty Stock Photo)
A worry in the bedroom is the risk of sustaining an injury, with sex expert Annabelle Knight recently offering her advice on how to avoid a bedroom disaster.
Speaking on behalf of Lovehoney, Knight said: “Placing a pillow under the lumbar spine can reduce back injuries or flare-ups. It may also help increase pleasure during penetration.
“If the individual on top finds they have discomfort in their knees during this position, moving to a standing position whilst the receiver is on the bed may avoid this.
“Changing how close you are to your lover’s body may make it easier or harder for you and reduce muscle fatigue – it’s all about experimenting!”