Pleasure Never Gets Old

2024 - ongoing.

Pleasure Never Gets Old is a collaborative research project between Dr. Rosara Torrisi (Widener University) and Nienke Helder, to get a better understanding of the pleasure needs of post-menopausal women.

Pleasure never gets old focuses on advancing the understanding of sexual health, with a particular emphasis on the underrepresented demographic of perimenopausal women. We propose a novel and inclusive research approach, combining scientific and design methodologies to explore the sexual well-being of this specific group. The project aims to bridge gaps in existing research, product design, and healthcare practices related to sexual health, recognizing the underrepresentation of diverse demographics.

The research plan involves qualitative interviews, experimental prototypes, and participatory design methods to gather comprehensive insights into the issues faced by perimenopausal women in terms of sexual pleasure and accessibility. The ultimate goal is to create a science-backed product that caters to the unique needs of this demographic, promoting a more inclusive and compassionate approach to sexual science.

By focusing on this demographic, the project aims to uncover specific needs and challenges that have been overlooked in traditional research because of underrepresentation. We advocate for a more democratic and participatory approach, involving practitioners, therapists, and patients in the design and execution of the study. This approach aims to break away from the innovation dilemma in sexual healthcare, where skepticism and criticism often impede the introduction of new products or approaches. Ultimately, the project’s purpose is not only to generate new knowledge about the sexual health of perimenopausal women but also to serve as a model for more inclusive research and design practices. By combining scientific rigor with empathetic and user-focused design principles, we hope to inspire a broader perspective in sexual science and contribute to the development of effective, inclusive solutions that go beyond the traditionally covered topics and groups.

This project has been selected for a development contribution as part of the Open Call: Fresh Perspectives by the Creative Industries Fund NL.