Sex Education: How Irish women are focusing on their own pleasure in the bedroom

The terms ‘pleasure’ and ‘pandemic’ don’t naturally go together.

But while a deadly virus was beginning to spread across the world this time two years ago - a new and particularly virulent strain of an erotic awakening also took hold.

In the past two years, we’ve collectively binge-watched Normal People, Sex Education and Bridgerton — shows that put female pleasure front and centre. On TikTok and Instagram, a whole new breed of influencers are recommending sex toys and talking openly about issues like vaginismus (a painful condition that can prevent women from having penetrative sex), while former Love Island stars Faye Winter and Teddy Soares fronted sexual wellness and lingerie brand’ Lovehoney’s latest campaign. When shopping online, you’re as likely to come across a vibrator on sites like Asos and LookFantastic as you are a coat.