Autoerotic asphyxiation refers to the purposeful restriction of oxygen flow to the brain, to enhance orgasm. Although usually associated with more hardcore S&M practices, many less experienced individuals find arousal in asphyxiation practices.
Autoerotic asphyxiation can be practiced alone or with a partner. Although the practice is fairly common, there are a high amount of accidental deaths associated with the practice each year. Many deaths that are ruled as suicides are actually accidental deaths related to autoerotic asphyxiation. Since any pressure on the vagus nerve can cause almost instant death, the practice of autoerotic asphyxiation should be approached with caution.
