Everything You Need to Know About Erotic Breath Games

Erotic asphyxia (the mechanical obstruction of the airways or the inability of oxygen to reach the bloodstream due to insufficient oxygen in the environment) is a sexual activity that involves intentionally cutting off the supply of air (oxygen) to you or your partner. While it may increase arousal in some individuals, it can lead to serious, life-threatening consequences.

Is it safe?

While many sexual activities carry risks, breath-control games pose more significant dangers.

“EA is really very risky and can lead to heart attack, brain damage from lack of oxygen, and death,” says sex therapist Janet Brito.
Most experts say this practice is unsafe. There is no way to implement EA in a completely safe way.

Why is it done?

Physiological

During breath control, the oxygen supply to the brain is restricted. This can cause dizziness or a feeling of lightheadedness. When the pressure is relieved, the renewed flow of oxygen and blood triggers the release of dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, creating a feeling of "confused euphoria."

Psychological

For some, this game presents a dynamic of power and control: the person doing the dodging feels dominant; the person being dodged experiences a sense of submission. This can create a separate layer of sexual arousal.

Physically

Although the effect of endorphins and hormones after drowning is a protective response of the brain and body, a person may perceive it as pleasure. In reality, it is a warning signal, but emotion and pleasure can be intertwined.

Individually or with a partner?

When done without a partner, it is called... autoerotic asphyxia It is called.

Solo training is much more dangerous than training with a partner..

Some people use "fail-safe" methods: knots that unravel when pulled, mechanisms that cause them to fall when they faint, or friend supervision. However, most of these methods can be unsuccessful.
Even when experienced with a partner, the partner may not recognize the right boundaries, increasing the risk of complications.

Responsible breath control is based on three things:

1. Learn about the anatomy of the neck, head, and chest.
2. Communicate: define your boundaries and create a predefined signage system, such as a stop sign.
3. Obtain explicit consent: share clear consent with your partner for each step, both before and during the activity. Remember that consent is not valid if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. .

What should be done?

• If your partner is not breathing, call emergency services immediately. Then begin CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation).
• If you experience side effects during solo use, ask a trusted person for help at home.
• If you experience shortness of breath or chest pain, seek professional help immediately.

Types of applications and risks.

• Choking: Pressure is applied to the outer surface of the neck with the hand or a ligature. Direct pressure should not be applied to the trachea and Adam's apple. If not applied correctly, it can be fatal.
• Strangulation (by a cord, belt, scarf, etc.)This is very dangerous. A gap of at least two fingers' width must be left; otherwise, the risk of cardiac arrest or brain damage is high.
• Smothering (pressure on the face)Methods such as sitting on a partner's face or using a mask. Performing it solo is very risky. Security signals and boundary negotiations are critically important.

Common side effects and serious complications

Symptoms may include hoarse voice, sore throat, difficulty swallowing, shortness of breath, panic, headache, blurred vision, and loss of consciousness. Repeated oxygen deprivation can lead to brain damage or death.

In the United States, the annual number of deaths from autoerotic asphyxiation is estimated to be between 250 and 1,000.

In case of emergency

• Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you experience symptoms such as breathing cessation, loss of consciousness, seizures, visual disturbances, or chest pain.

• If you know how to perform CPR, do so; if not, the staff at the helpline can guide you.