Cover A woman lying on a bed (Photo:
Alexander Krivitskiy / Unsplash)
A woman lying on a bed (Photo: Alexander Krivitskiy / Unsplash)
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In this article, we discuss sexual wellness—looking back at the root of the problem and learning why it needs to be normalised
It’s difficult to discuss sex and intimacy in the kind of society we have in the Philippines. Most of us were raised to believe that any topic relating to it is taboo, crass, and can only be spoken in hushed tones. “Being a female raised in a mostly traditional set-up myself, I was made to believe that I should be very careful not to bring up sex in public as it is not ‘lady-like’,” says Dr Cheska Malubay-Vinzon, a distinguished doctor from St. Luke’s College of Medicine and Milky & Jelly Co’s resource OB-GYN. However, it helps that change is slowly coming and people are now more open about discussing these matters in a serious and level-headed manner.
“And there are now more available resources and avenues to help us learn more about aspects of it,” adds Dr Malubay-Vinzon. “And why shouldn’t we? For something so integral in our development, we should be able to talk about it and learn more about how best to deal with any issues regarding sex.”
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This is what groups like Milk and Jelly advocate for. Founded by three women who discovered the magical “O” (orgasm) in their 30th year, it is a sexual wellness brand that empowers one’s pleasures. Its intimate community focuses on the journeys of curious beginners—addressing all the questions they might have as they embark on their path of self-discovery.
On sexual wellness
Sexual wellness refers to the physical, emotional, and mental state regarding sex and intimacy. “It is very important in every individual’s development because this can have an impact on self-esteem, relationships (especially the intimate relationships we form and keep), as well as our health,” explains Dr Malubay-Vinzon. “Ultimately, this aspect of how we care for ourselves will help us create a healthier, well-rounded understanding of ourselves.”
The idea of sex should not be vilified as something that will ultimately corrupt people—as other people may think. It should be framed as a normal, integral part of everyone’s life.
“I think that is a good place to start,” says Milky and Jelly’s resident OB-GYN. “The mentality that talking about sex and topics related to it makes people immoral should be consciously changed. In that way, people will be able to talk about their concerns without guilt and shame, and we can help address any concerns they have that are impeding them from achieving sexual wellness in their lives.”
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On achieving satisfaction
Apart from the act itself, masturbation is encouraged. It is a necessary and healthy component of sexual maturation.
“The most important benefit of masturbation is the discovery of what it is that pleases you or facilitates helping one orgasm,” says Dr Malubay-Vinzon. “Orgasms can help trigger the release of hormones such as dopamine and oxytocin that are related with an increase in positive emotions that can help counteract cortisol, commonly known as a stress hormone.” Sex and intimacy are integral parts of our identity formation and are nothing to be ashamed of.
On helpful “machines”
The sexual journey can be more intimidating than exciting at times, especially for beginners, which is why Milk and Jelly curate a range of expert-approved content and products. Inspired by the classic pairing of milk and jelly, they embody the essence of comfort and a delightful treat for the senses. Like the smooth and creamy texture of this classic snack duo, they aim to create a space that offers simplicity, familiarity, and utmost satisfaction for all.
“We aspire for Milk & Jelly to become a haven—a safe space where our community can openly share their thoughts and experiences,” says Milky and Jelly co-founder Kat Eusebio. “[Our aim] is to simplify the intimate wellness journey.”
Above Satisfy your cravings with Milk and Jelly’s Cookie Vibrator
Above Milk and Jelly’s Glide Lubricant is a smooth ride every time
Satisfy your cravings with Milk and Jelly’s Cookie Vibrator
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“The Cookie is our best-selling toy. It’s the perfect toy for first-timers—a small but satisfying machine,” reveals Eusebio. USB-rechargeable and convenient for travel, the double-purpose vibrator is a powerful motor that simulates sucking and licking motions. It also has seven easily adjustable intensity levels.
These and more of their products can help you achieve the pleasure you seek. “Getting to know our preferences ultimately allows us to get to know ourselves more,” says Dr Malubay-Vinzon. “When we know what we want out of sex and hopefully how to best achieve the pleasure we want [through such and/or machines], we celebrate true intimacy.”
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Angela Nicole Regis Guiral is the assistant digital editor of Tatler Philippines. She studied journalism and has since written features that look closely at how culture, lifestyle and social impact converge, while occasionally wandering into the worlds of style and travel.
