A new and hazardous sexual trend has proven to be lethal, prompting experts to issue warnings against attempting it.
People engage in a variety of activities in the bedroom, but safety should always be a priority.
Whether it’s strangulation or venturing into bondage without the necessary safety precautions, careful consideration is crucial before engaging in certain practices.
This is especially true for those interested in Erotic electrostimulation, commonly referred to as electrosex.
Erotic electrostimulation involves using devices that apply electrical stimulation to the genitals.
Known as ‘e-stim’, this practice can result in injury or even death if not performed correctly.
Dr. Sherry A. Ross, an OBGYN, advises caution in this respect.
She explained to Cosmopolitan that devices with electrical power can produce heat capable of causing burns, heart arrhythmias, and even death.
Ensuring the safety of the person involved—confirming they are healthy, not pregnant, and following proper procedures—is essential.
Brooke Faught, a nurse practitioner and Clinical Director of the Women’s Institute for Sexual Health, emphasizes the risks when using items not intended for sexual activity.
She mentioned: “When used in a safe and appropriate manner, these devices are quite safe with minimal potential for harm. The concern lies in the potential for someone to use a device that is not designed for human use. If a person were to receive excessive stimulation, they might experience pain, cramping, and other potential musculoskeletal or neurological consequences.”
While fatalities from this practice are rare, they have occurred.
Improper use of e-stim can be deadly, such as in the case of a US man who accidentally electrocuted himself in 2008 while engaging in the act.
Amanda Martin found her husband Paul in a tragic state with wires attached to him in 2008.
She reported in an affidavit: “I tried to move Paul, but got an electrical shock.”
In a separate case, a Pennsylvania man faced involuntary manslaughter charges in 2008 after a homemade e-stim device, made using a hairdryer, resulted in his wife’s death.
The mishap triggered a heart attack in the 29-year-old woman.
Toby Taylor, aged 37, was held on involuntary manslaughter and reckless endangerment charges with bail set at $100,000.
Initially, he claimed the hairdryer had shocked his wife, but later admitted to using a cord attached to an electric strip multiple times.
York County Coroner Barry Bloss questioned the risk, stating, as per ABC Action News: “Even if you did it before, you have to know you could kill someone.”
Experts recommend using only devices specifically designed for e-stim. Heidi, CEO of e-stim shop Current Pleasures, explained to the outlet that low frequency devices can feel like stinging, while higher frequencies target muscle contractions.
When performed correctly, the process should not result in burns, and electro-conductive gel can be useful.
Above all, do not attempt to create a homemade setup.