When it comes to open relationships, BDSM and trans identity, no one is indifferent. In search of freedom, they often explore these practices to express desires in line with their gender identity. Communicating about these practices helps us to better understand how these relationships strengthen self-esteem, communication and self-recognition. In the following lines, we’ll give you more details on open relationships, BDSM and trans perspectives on the exploration of sexuality.
Open relationships in a trans context
Open relationships are when a couple makes the decision to have sex with other people. It’s a way for couples to explore other aspects of their sexuality. But not everything is allowed in an open relationship. Cheating or infidelity occurs when things go beyond what the couple has agreed. It’s important to discuss and reassess all aspects of the relationship at all times. The key word in open relationships is compersion, which is the happiness you feel when you witness your partner’s joy or happiness with a person or what that person has brought to you.
For trans people, open relationships are escape routes that allow them to have sex outside their primary relationships. Some couples engage in these experiences together, while others choose to have experiences with other people separately. According to some beliefs rooted in our culture, couples who enter into open relationships do so because they are missing something. On the contrary, because they have a strong desire for discovery, many people decide to open up their relationships in order to intensify an already extraordinary bond.
BDSM and trans identity
BDSM involves power relationships, experiences of pain and a variety of games, constituting at once a practice, a form of therapy and sometimes even a pastime. It’s important to share your needs precisely with your partner, whatever the type of relationship. Don’t assume that your partner shares your expectations. Take the time to discuss your desires and expectations, and to determine together whether this practice corresponds to your respective wishes.
Explain your vision and don’t hesitate to define your expectations, a kind of implicit contract that establishes the limits and objectives of each party. Once these expectations have been clarified on both sides, the two partners can work out the foundations of their relationship and their way of operating.
Creating safe spaces for sexual exploration
Creating safe spaces for sexual exploration is essential. It allows people to express themselves without fear of judgment or discrimination. For those who have been marginalized or discriminated against in the past, these safe spaces offer a sense of belonging to a community. In a world where stigmatization, micro aggression and other forms of prejudice continue to exist, it is necessary to create these spaces.
According to recent research reported by medecinesciences.org, 87% of people in the LGBTQI+ community say they have experienced transphobic assaults, insults, stares or threats in the public space. This figure shows the constant threat posed by being seen, perceived or known as a trans person.
Mental health and well-being
A great deal of research has been done on the correlation between transidentity, depression and anxiety disorders. According to Budge et al (2013), of 351 transgender people surveyed regarding depressive and anxiety disorder symptomatologies, 51.4% of transgender women and 48.3% of transgender men showed significant diagnostic criteria for depression. In terms of significant anxiety disorder symptoms, 40.4% of transgender women and 47.5% of transgender men showed signs.
These alarming figures show that transgender people have higher rates of depression and anxiety disorders. Taking care of yourself when you’re feeling negative about your gender identity and physical appearance is the first thing to do. There are a number of techniques for managing stress and anxiety:
- do activities that make you feel good and help you feel better about your body;
- There are discussion groups, especially in the LGBTQIA+ community. You can get in touch with them, and they’ll be able to listen to you without judgment;
- you can also approach a transgender person who will be open and available to guide you, if you wish to confide in a small group;
- use the services of a specialized therapist. It’s ideal to be accompanied by a health professional, as this will help you find concrete solutions to help you feel better about your body.
Finding someone you can fully rely on will help you regain your self-confidence.
Communication and negotiation
Setting clearlimits and expectations is an essential part of any relationship. Effective communication plays a crucial role, enabling partners to clearly express their needs, desires and limits. Misunderstandings can arise without proper communication. This can lead to potential discomfort, emotional distress and even harm.
Fostering open and honest dialogue between partners is one of the fundamental principles of boundary setting. Negotiation is the art of finding a solution that benefits one’s self and the other. There should be no winners or losers in optimal negotiation. In an open relationship, you’ll need to make sure you’re on the same wavelength. This is to avoid either of you feeling used or betrayed.
Societal and cultural perspectives
Transgender people are discriminated against, and those who openly assume their identity are more likely to be harassed. Trans people express their sexual identity in different ways. They may resort to surgery and hormone treatments to make the physical changes more permanent. However, this can take several years and does not always result in full sexual conversion. It is important to note that it is because of their gender identity, and not necessarily their sexual orientation, that trans people face transphobia and discrimination.
Transgender people can be heterosexual, homosexual or bisexual. It’s everyone’s responsibility to drive forward an effective policy to combat LGBT discrimination, and to raise awareness of this issue, in order to facilitate the social integration of this minority. The persistence of discrimination is intolerable in today’s society. Early recognition of such discrimination should enable us to combat it more effectively.
