While ‘kink’ refers to all socially deemed ‘unorthodox’ sexual practices that a person takes part in or is into, ‘fetish’ describes the focus of their sexual fantasies (whether living beings or inanimate objects). When considering both definitions, either is often regarded as taboo, in terms of social norms.

Fortunately, our world is becoming ever more sex-positive and, as a result, many fetishes and kinks have been ‘normalized.’ However, not every fetish (or fetishes) that a person has is understood; this might be partly due to the varying subcultures that may branch from a fetish or kink. Consequently, those who do not experience it can feel uncertain about what it entails.

Today, we’re discussing the paraphilia of mirror sex (katoptronophilia) or watching oneself in sexual acts in a recorded video, to help you better understand the topic. We hope it will give you a better idea of what it’s like to experience this fetish and what folks who enjoy it are into.

What is mirror sex (katoptronophilia)?

Mirror sex, also known as katoptronophilia, is a paraphilia whereby a person enjoys watching themselves engage in sexual activities in front of a mirror. This can be solo acts (such as masturbation), coupled acts, or activities with more than one sex partner. For some, this is in front of a single mirror, while others fantasize about being surrounded by many.

Common misconceptions

Did you know that katoptronophilia doesn't solely involve sex in front of a mirror? For some folx, the arousal is rooted in watching themselves have sex in the form of a recorded video. What's more, this fetish is not exclusively based in voyeurism or exhibitionism specifically; for some, it can be the thrill of feeling like they are on display, while the notion of being watched arouses others.

How to talk about it with your partner

When t alking to your partner about your kinks and fetishes, especially when it would involve their participation, it's essential to be transparent and honest about what is expected of them before receiving full and enthusiastic consent. Discuss what exactly you're hoping to get out of the experience (and what you hope that they get from it), as well as the varying 'intensities' of how it can be practiced.

Things to try

When it comes to katoptronophilia, you can explore the paraphilia in different ways — and it doesn't matter if you are a penis or vagina owner! Experiment with different shaped mirrors in various places around the room, from being hung up on a wall to a full-length mirror propped against a piece of furniture. For folx who enjoy engaging in other fetishes (for example, BDSM), these acts can also be done in front of a mirror or on a consented recording.

Are there risks to consider?

As with any sexual act, there are some things to consider. For one, couples engaging in penetrative vaginal sex with a penis should consider their birth control options, if they are trying to avoid pregnancy. As well, for partners that are not fluid bonded, preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) should also be a consideration, whether the sex acts are penetrative, oral, or involve touching areas of the body that may have an STI.

How can I learn more?

The internet is your oyster! If you are curious to learn more about mirror sex or how to best watch yourself engage in sexual activities on a recorded video, there are so many websites to help guide you. There is plenty more to be learned from online threads of kinksters exploring and discussing their paraphilias to reading informative posts on some of the best sex blogs out there.

We hope you now understand what it means to have a paraphilia for mirror sex (katoptronophilia) or of watching oneself in sexual acts in a recorded video. This includes what is involved in the fetish and why it can lead to such intense arousal for some people. Should the topic come up down the road, we anticipate that you will feel more open to speaking about it candidly from a place of knowledge. Whether you feel open to further understanding the fetish from someone who partakes in it first-hand or educating someone who may be apprehensive about it, we feel that we have done our job to help make the world a more sexually inclusive place.

Do you enjoy mirror sex (and experience katoptronophilia)? How about watching yourself have sex in a recorded video, whether solo or with someone else? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Fetish Friday: Mirror Sex (Katoptronophilia)