In an era where traditional sex education often leaves much to be desired, many individuals are turning to social media for insights on sex and sexual health. Influencers in the sex education sphere, known as “sexfluencers,” such as sex worker Kayla Jade, sexologist Juliet Allen, and podcaster Abbie Chatfield, are leveraging platforms like Instagram and TikTok to share valuable information. Alongside these influencers, medical professionals and individuals from diverse backgrounds are sharing their experiences, particularly from communities that historically lack a platform, as noted by Alexandra James from La Trobe University’s Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society.
According to Dr. James, these digital environments offer a safe and anonymous space for discussions around previously taboo subjects, enabling a reignited conversation focusing on female pleasure and inclusivity across body types and abilities. While she views the rise of sexfluencers as a neutral phenomenon, Dr. James emphasises the importance of digital literacy—viewers should critically evaluate the content they consume.
The movement towards a “democratisation of sex” means that discussions around topics such as female pleasure are becoming more widespread and accessible. Professionals like pelvic floor physiotherapists are also contributing positively to conversations, counteracting misinformation prevalent in the field.
Kassandra Mourikis, a sex therapist in Melbourne, highlights the growing openness around diverse sexual practices and identities—ranging from kinks to non-traditional relationships—fueled by the visibility provided by sexfluencers. The shift towards discussing sexual wellness and the benefits of products like sex toys serves to dispel longstanding myths and broaden the dialogue about sexual health.
However, caution is advised when navigating this largely self-regulated influencer space. Mourikis points out the potential risks associated with unqualified advice, even from those who are trained professionals. As consumers of this content, it is essential to scrutinise the sources and motivations behind the information presented, asking critical questions about the influencer’s credentials and experiences.
To distinguish between reliable and misleading content, users can reflect on how the information benefits or excludes different communities, whether the influencer acknowledges their personal experiences, and if they encourage professional consultation. Engaging in dialogue with partners and trusted professionals can also help discern the accuracy of the advice.
Dr. James affirms that most users are adept at navigating these online spaces and can differentiate between factual and subjective information. As content continues to flood the digital realm, users are encouraged to approach this wealth of information with caution, filtering out the noise to engage with valuable insights while remaining vigilant against misinformation.