man kissing womans cheeks

Doing PDA the Right Way

public display of affection

Showing your man you can't keep your hands off him boosts confidence and builds self-esteem, strengthening intimacy between you both. However, too much PDA could send him and your friends fleeing out of sheer discomfort. Using these tips as your guide, discover your boundaries as a couple, and learn what works and what won't fly.

Subtle yet sexy

Think of sexy yet subtle ways to show your partner you care. Give him a pat on the backside when no one is looking, or maybe flash a little shoulder or leg. An under the table thigh caress or a game of footsie while you're dining always excites. Even though no one sees it, it helps build anticipation between the two of you, hinting at what's to come.
 

Innocent and acceptable

You're in the clear if you limit your actions to socially acceptable forms of PDA. Holding hands, locking arms, a peck on the cheek and the occasional back rub should not offend the people around you. Expressing your love using these innocent gestures is encouraged. In fact, it makes everyone around you feel warm and fuzzy.

Location. Location. Location.

As general rules of thumb, don't make out in front of children, avoid blocking pathways, and steer clear of places where people are eating. However, you have a green light when it comes to nights on the town, dark corridors, empty elevators, and taxi cabs. While the idea of getting caught is part of the fun, only do what you are comfortable with and use your best judgment.
 

Boundaries and balance

Have an honest discussion with your partner, asking what types of PDA he likes and what types don't agree with his sensibilities. Divulge what works and doesn't work for you, too. Everyone is different. What comforts one person may turn another person off. Be mindful of who you're around and what you're doing and, when in doubt, make it quick and stealthy.

About the Author

Zoe Wilder is a writer with a Bachelor of Arts in English literature from the College of William & Mary, and a Master of Social Work from Fordham University. Her work has been published in The Huffington Post, Cosmopolitan, Good Housekeeping, Kinkly, MindBodyGreen, URB,‘SUP Magazine, Vault, Brooklyn Exposed and Thought Catalog. 

SHOP THIS ARTICLE
  • The K-Y® Yours + Mine couples lubes are made to give him and her intimate thrills and chills. The two personal lubricants in the Yours + Mine couples lube set with the top of each bottle open.

    Yours + Mine Couples Lube

    Yours + Mine Couples Lube

    (YOURS) WARMING | NOT COMPATIBLE WITH CONDOMS
    (MINE) TINGLING | WATER-BASED | NOT COMPATIBLE WITH CONDOMS
  • K-Y® Jelly Water-Based Personal  Lubricant (Body Friendly  Formula) K-Y® Jelly Water-Based Personal  Lubricant (Body Friendly  Formula)

    K-Y® Jelly Water-Based Personal Lubricant (Body Friendly Formula)

    K-Y® Jelly Water-Based Personal Lubricant (Body Friendly Formula)

    SOOTHING | WATER-BASED | COMPATIBLE WITH LATEX CONDOMS
  • Intense Pleasure Gel Lube K-Y® Intense Pleasure Gel Lube bottle with cap off and lube dripping out of the top.

    Intense Pleasure Gel Lube

    Intense Pleasure Gel Lube

    TINGLING | WATER-BASED | COMPATIBLE WITH LATEX AND POLYISOPRENE CONDOMS
  • Liquid Water-Based Personal Lubricant The front of the 4.5 oz. K-Y® Classic Liquid WaterBased Lubricant bottle for wetter sex.

    Liquid Water-Based Personal Lubricant

    Liquid Water-Based Personal Lubricant

    SOOTHING | WATER-BASED | COMPATIBLE WITH NATURAL RUBBER LATEX CONDOMS