BDSM is a form of sexual expression in which adults experiment with power, control, physical sensations, and bodily restraints with mutual consent. It is a way to explore and express sexual preferences and fantasies, often within a clearly agreed-upon framework of safety and trust.

The acronym BDSM stands for Bondage & Discipline (BD), Dominance & Submission (DS), and Sadism & Masochism (SM). These terms refer to different aspects that may be present in BDSM practices:

• Bondage involves restricting freedom of movement, for example through the use of rope, cuffs, or tight clothing.

• Discipline refers to giving commands and enforcing rules, sometimes with (playful or serious) punishments when rules are broken.

• Dominance and Submission relate to power dynamics within a role division, where one person takes control and the other voluntarily submits.

• Sadomasochism means that someone may derive pleasure from giving (sadism) or receiving (masochism) physical or mental pain—always within clear boundaries and mutual agreement.

At the core of BDSM are communication, mutual respect, and consent.