Changing Professional Landscape in Sexually Salient Workplaces

We have witnessed the rise of sex positivity in the broader cultural landscape, which has primarily captured the attention of sexual wellness companies such as those producing sex toys and contraceptive products. Alongside this cultural shift, there has been a notable transition in this industry that has historically been male-dominated, particularly in leadership positions. Increasing awareness of female perspectives in product development that resonate with their target audience has led to a growing presence of women in these companies as well as female-led sexual wellness enterprises. These trends bring gender - which has traditionally been seen as shaping perceptions and behaviors in the workplace as a “background identity” - to the forefront, as gender and sexuality have become central topics of daily discourse in these highly liberal and sex-positive working environments.

What unique challenges and opportunities does this cultural and organizational shift present? How do people position their gender identity given these challenges and opportunities? In this study, we conduct in-depth semi-structured interviews with both men and women working in the sexual wellness industry and ask about their job satisfaction, workplace safety, career progression, and intersections of professional and private lives. Preliminary findings reveal that gender identity plays a significant role in shaping the professional challenges individuals encounter. These challenges include feelings of alienation from their own bodies and difficulties in establishing boundaries between their personal and professional lives, particularly when discussing sexual wellness products.