Aftercare is the act of supporting and caring for an intimate partner immediately after sex or a BDSM scene. Aftercare may occur after any sex act, such as vaginal or anal penetration, the use of sex toys or oral sex. It's the conclusion of intimate playtime, just as foreplay is the start of intimate play. Allowing sufficient time for foreplay, sex and aftercare can make sexual encounters more satisfying for all types of couples.
Aftercare in BDSM
In BDSM, aftercare is the process of attending to sexual partners' physical, emotional and psychological needs after a BDSM scene. Typically, the dominant partner in the scene will be the one leading the aftercare and tending to the needs of their submissive partner or partners. BDSM scenes are often very intense and can be emotionally, psychologically and physically draining. Aftercare gives dominants the chance to check in with their submissives and confirm the scene has been enjoyable for them. It can also help a submissive who has entered subspace return to normal functioning. While aftercare is often discussed for submissives, aftercare for dominants is important too. Spending time on aftercare can help everyone involved in a BDSM scene return to an equilibrium that allows them to rejoin the outside world. Keeping the needs of all partners balanced here typically required negotiation.
Sexual Aftercare
While aftercare is traditionally associated with the BDSM community, anyone having any kind of sex can practice sexual aftercare. Like BDSM aftercare, sexual aftercare focuses on supporting sexual partners and deepening intimacy. However, both partners in sexual aftercare focus on supporting and caring for one another. It is not led by just one person as people outside the BDSM community (and not in D/s dynamics) tend to be more equal in their sexual experiences. They focus on staying connected to one another as the euphoria of their encounter subsides. As with BDSM aftercare, people practicing sexual aftercare may also check in to confirm the experience was good for all parties and communicate about any issues related to the sex on their mind.