Bumble, the app that started a movement by putting women in charge when dating, has partnered with Unprude, a Filipina-founded sexual therapy-based app in the Philippines, to promote sexual empowerment among Filipino women this Sexual Health Awareness Month.
In the Philippines, where traditional values and religious beliefs often hold sway, sex remains a taboo subject for many. For countless women, discussing sexuality was often considered inappropriate, crass, or unbecoming of a lady. The unspoken rule was simple: don’t talk about it, don’t think about it, and most importantly, don’t do it.
While there have been recent efforts to promote sexual education and awareness, many people still feel uncomfortable or embarrassed to discuss these topics openly, even with their closest friends and family. However, a new generation of Filipinos are challenging these beliefs and paving the way for a more open and accepting society.
According to Bumble, the way that we are talking, thinking about, and having sex is changing. More of us are approaching sex, intimacy, and dating in an open and exploratory way (42%)*, with more than half agreeing that it’s important to discuss sexual wants and needs early on (53%).
When it comes to initiating physical intimacy, confidence is on the rise. 1 in 5 (22%) Filipinos are very comfortable** being the first person to initiate physical intimacy in a relationship, with men (28%) being more likely to initiate than women (12%). Furthermore, more than half (62%) also stated that they are comfortable communicating their sexual preferences to a new sexual partner, with it being more pronounced among millennials (67%) than Gen Z (51%).
Redefining intimacy in the dating app era
Dating apps have revolutionized the way we connect with potential partners, making it easier than ever to find someone who aligns with our interests and values. However, with the convenience of swiping right, the question arises: how can we find genuine intimacy in these apps?
Intimacy, once defined by physical touch, has evolved in the age of modern dating. Now, it’s also about building meaningful connections through shared experiences, vulnerability, and emotional connection. In fact, an overwhelming majority (78%) of women*** say it’s key that their partner has an understanding of both emotional and physical intimacy.
This shift has also extended to how we approach sexuality. “When exploring your sexual desires, it is important to prioritize safety, consent, and open communication,” says certified Sexologist and Unprude Founder, Dr. Rica Cruz. “This means setting boundaries, respecting and being curious about each other’s wishes, and having honest conversations about how you both feel in the process.”
A study from Bumble also revealed**** that 4 out of 5 people (84%) surveyed across the Philippines believe sexual compatibility is important in a relationship, and if there’s a lack of compatibility, more than half (55%) would discuss this with their partner. This highlights the importance of open communication and understanding in building a strong connection.
A guide to navigating emotional intimacy in modern dating
While sexual compatibility is important in any relationship, working it out doesn’t happen overnight. If you’re in a new relationship, opening up to someone you’re just getting to know can feel particularly intimidating. Certified Sexologist Dr. Rica Cruz shares some tips to encourage and increase those feelings of closeness between you and your Bumble match:
● Prioritize emotional intimacy: Emotional connection is the key for deeper connection and better sexual intimacy. Dive into each other’s lives by engaging in activities that foster emotional closeness, such as sharing personal stories, discussing future goals, or simply spending quality time together. Moments like these build solid emotional foundations that make everything more vibrant!
● Be curious about each other’s desires: Being in a relationship is like discovering each other’s secret treasure maps. Go spend some quality time discussing what turns you on, what makes you feel valued, and even what makes you cringe. Remember that sexual compatibility isn’t just about physical attraction. Ask questions, share your own preferences and quirks, and listen to what your partner really wants.
● Introduce play even in conversations: Playfulness can break the ice and make intimacy feel less intimidating. A fun way to do this is by using Unprude Conversation Cards in the Unprude App, which are designed to spark meaningful conversations and playful challenges between partners. The Unprude Conversation Cards encourage you to know more about each other in a fun and engaging way!
● Remember, it’s a journey: Building sexual compatibility takes time and effort. Don’t get discouraged if things don’t click right away. Just keep exploring, communicating, and most importantly, having fun. Your perfect match is out there, and with a little patience and openness, you’ll find them.
