When it comes to kinks and fetishes, society tends to focus on the more "mainstream" ones like BDSM, role-playing, or foot fetishes. However, there’s a whole world of lesser-known interests that exist just outside the usual conversation, and one of these is the underarm fetish. Yes, underarms! While this may sound unusual to some, it’s a legitimate and fascinating fetish for many, connecting deeply with the themes of submission, scent, and intimacy. Let’s dive into the details and give this often misunderstood topic the attention it deserves.

What Is an Underarm Fetish?

An underarm fetish involves a strong attraction to a person’s armpits. This attraction can be physical, sensual, or even psychological. For some, it’s the look or the feel of a partner’s armpits, while for others, it’s the scent. The allure might come from a completely bare, smooth underarm or one that’s unshaven and natural. Some people are drawn to the scent of deodorant, while others are more inclined toward the body’s natural smell.

Why Underarms?

To outsiders, an underarm fetish might seem perplexing, but it actually makes a lot of sense if you consider the following:

1. Pheromones: Humans release pheromones, chemicals involved in attraction, through their sweat glands, and underarms are major sites of these secretions. Many individuals with this fetish find the natural scent of a partner’s armpits to be incredibly intoxicating, as it’s closely tied to our biological mechanisms for attraction.

2. Vulnerability: Exposing one's underarms can feel intimate, as it's a part of the body we don’t typically display unless we’re comfortable with someone. It’s this sense of trust and vulnerability that can make underarms appealing for people into submission dynamics.

3. Submission: The underarm fetish is often linked to themes of submission. A partner allowing another to worship or engage with their armpits can be a sign of trust and power exchange. This dynamic can enhance feelings of vulnerability for the submissive partner, amplifying the power imbalance.

4. Scent and Sensuality: Our sense of smell is deeply tied to memory and emotion, making it a powerful element of attraction. People with an underarm fetish might be particularly drawn to the musky, earthy scent that comes from a partner’s armpits after physical exertion, which creates an intensely personal connection.

What Do the Numbers Say? Data on Fetishes!

Studies on sexual fetishes often reveal just how varied human desire can be. According to a study published in the Journal of Sex Research, roughly 1 in 4 people report having a fetish or paraphilia, meaning a fascination with a specific body part, object, or scenario. While foot fetishes remain the most commonly reported, fetishes involving less-discussed body parts, like underarms, exist in considerable numbers too. In fact, the Kinsey Institute has found that fetishes focusing on sweat, body odor, and armpits are much more common than previously thought, especially among men.

In some online fetish communities, underarm fetishism has a passionate following. Sites like Reddit, FetLife, and other kink-friendly platforms are home to thousands of people who discuss, share, and celebrate their love for underarms. So, while this fetish may not get mainstream attention, it certainly isn’t as rare as you might think.

Submission and Power Play

Underarm fetishism doesn’t exist in isolation; it often interplays with submission and power dynamics. Submission is a common theme in many fetish-based relationships, and the underarm fetish taps into this. When a submissive partner engages with a dominant’s underarms—whether by smelling, licking, or worshipping them—it symbolizes an exchange of control and trust.

Here are some ways this fetish can connect with submission and power dynamics:

• Worshipping a Partner’s Body: In the context of a dominant/submissive relationship, an underarm fetish might involve the submissive partner being “allowed” to worship or engage with their dominant’s underarms. The physical act of being close to and indulging in an often “hidden” part of the body can be a profound symbol of submission.

• Sensory Deprivation: Underarms are extremely sensitive, making them a prime location for sensory play. This could involve blindfolding or restraining a submissive partner and allowing them to focus entirely on scent or touch.

• Control of Scent: Dominants can manipulate their body’s scent by choosing when to allow their underarms to be engaged with—either fresh from a shower or after a workout. This adds an extra layer of control, leaving the submissive partner longing for the moment they get to enjoy their preferred scent.

• Tickling and Restraint: For those who enjoy the playful aspect of submission, underarms are a popular site for tickling, which can enhance a power dynamic. Tying a submissive’s arms up, exposing their underarms, and teasing them physically or with scent can create an intense and exciting power play.

Little Space: A Connection to Vulnerability

The term "little space" refers to a mental state that some individuals, typically submissives, enter during power exchange dynamics. In little space, the submissive partner might feel smaller, more vulnerable, and perhaps even childlike. This is a place of safety and trust, where the dominant takes on a caregiving role.

So, where does the underarm fetish fit into this? It’s simple: vulnerability. Underarms are often associated with moments of vulnerability (think about raising your arms, exposing a sensitive area), and this vulnerability ties directly into little space. For someone in little space, engaging with a partner’s underarms could be an extension of that trust. It’s intimate and personal, a shared moment that strengthens the bond between partners.

In scenarios where little space and submission overlap, the underarm fetish might come into play as part of a soothing routine. The dominant partner could allow the submissive to rest their head in the crook of their arm, taking in their scent as a calming, grounding act. Or, it could be playful, with tickling and gentle touches bringing both partners closer together.

Gender and the Underarm Fetish

Though the underarm fetish can be enjoyed by anyone, it tends to be more prevalent among men. The Kinsey Institute found that many men are drawn to the muskier, earthier smells that come from underarms, likely due to the connection between scent and sexual attraction. This could be evolutionary, as body odor is often tied to pheromones, which signal fertility and genetic compatibility.

But it’s not just men who are drawn to this fetish. Women and non-binary individuals can, and do, enjoy it as well. For some women, the act of having their underarms worshipped can be incredibly empowering, turning an area often overlooked into an object of desire.

On the other hand, for non-binary and gender non-conforming individuals, the underarm fetish can be a way to connect with their body in a positive, affirming way. Underarm hair, for instance, is often a site of body acceptance, especially for those who reject traditional beauty standards. In this way, the underarm fetish can be an act of body positivity and self-love.

Positions and Play: How to Enjoy the Underarm Fetish

So, how does one engage with an underarm fetish? There are no strict rules, but here are a few fun and intimate ways partners can explore this kink:

1. Arms Raised: This is the most common position for underarm play. The submissive partner might lie on their back with their arms raised, giving the dominant partner easy access to their armpits. This can be combined with tickling, licking, or simply enjoying the natural scent.

2. Spooning: In a cuddling or spooning position, the submissive partner can nuzzle into the dominant’s armpit. This position allows for a mix of intimacy and sensory pleasure, as the submissive partner can take in the scent and feel the warmth of their partner’s body.

3. Tickle Play: If you and your partner enjoy playful submission, underarms are an ideal spot for light, teasing tickles. With arms restrained or held up, the dominant can explore the submissive’s sensitivity, leading to laughter and even frustration, which adds to the power dynamic.

4. After-Workout Fun: For those who enjoy the muskier side of the underarm fetish, engaging with your partner’s armpits after they’ve worked out can heighten the experience. The scent of sweat mixed with natural body odor can be incredibly arousing for those who are drawn to it.

5. Restraints and Vulnerability: For those who enjoy BDSM, underarm play can be combined with restraints. Having a partner tied up with their arms above their head leaves their underarms completely exposed and vulnerable. This can be the perfect opportunity for the dominant partner to tease, tickle, or even use ice for extra sensations.

The Psychology Behind the Fetish

Like many fetishes, the attraction to underarms isn’t just physical—it’s also deeply psychological. For some, it’s the taboo nature of the fetish that makes it exciting. Armpits aren’t usually considered a focal point of attraction, and engaging with them can feel rebellious or daring, breaking the usual rules of what’s considered “sexy.”

Additionally, for people who have grown up in cultures that stigmatize body odor or body hair, exploring an underarm fetish might be a way of pushing back against those social norms. There’s something empowering about embracing the parts of the body that society tells us to hide or 

feel ashamed of. In this way, an underarm fetish can be seen as an act of rebellion—a celebration of natural human scent and physicality that flies in the face of societal expectations.

On a deeper level, the underarm fetish may also tap into our primal instincts. Scent plays a significant role in mate selection for many animals, including humans. While we may not always be aware of it, we’re constantly picking up on subtle cues from a partner’s body odor. The attraction to underarm scent could be linked to these primal urges, driving a connection that’s as much about chemistry as it is about physical desire.

Some psychologists argue that fetishes often develop from early childhood experiences or associations, but the exact cause varies from person to person. It’s important to note that having a fetish doesn’t make someone abnormal or deviant. In fact, as research shows, fetishes are quite common, and exploring them with a willing partner can lead to deeper intimacy and connection.

Misconceptions and Stigma

Like many fetishes, underarm fetishism is often misunderstood or stigmatized. Society tends to promote a narrow view of what’s considered “normal” or “acceptable” in terms of sexual attraction, leaving little room for anything that falls outside the box. This can lead to feelings of shame or embarrassment for individuals who are into less conventional kinks, like underarm fetishism.

It’s important to challenge these misconceptions and normalize a broader range of sexual preferences. Fetishes, including an attraction to underarms, are a healthy part of human sexuality as long as they are consensual and respectful. There’s no reason why someone should feel ashamed for being attracted to a specific part of the body.

Additionally, many people who engage with their fetish in a consensual, communicative way find it enhances their relationships. Being open about what turns you on—whether it’s underarms, feet, or something else—can foster stronger connections with your partner. Honest discussions about desires, boundaries, and comfort levels are key to a healthy sexual relationship.

Gender and Scent Preferences

One fascinating aspect of the underarm fetish is how it can vary based on gender. Studies have shown that men and women often have different preferences when it comes to scent, which may explain why the fetish manifests differently across genders.

• Men: Research suggests that men are generally more sensitive to body odor and may be more likely to develop a fetish around scent, including underarms. Men’s sweat contains high levels of androstenone, a chemical compound that plays a role in sexual attraction. For some men, the musky scent of a partner’s armpits may be a key factor in their fetish.

• Women: Women’s preferences for scent can fluctuate depending on their menstrual cycle. During ovulation, women are more likely to be attracted to strong, masculine scents, which may include the natural smell of a partner’s underarms. However, some women are drawn to the scent of deodorant or clean, freshly washed armpits, which can still play into the fetish but in a different way.

• Non-Binary and Gender Non-Conforming Individuals: For non-binary and gender non-conforming people, underarm fetishism might be tied to a sense of body positivity or gender expression. Embracing the natural state of their body, including underarm hair or scent, can be an act of defiance against traditional beauty standards and gender norms. As a result, underarm play becomes a celebration of individuality and self-acceptance.

Cultural Variations and Historical Perspectives

The concept of body odor, especially underarm odor, has different meanings in various cultures. In some parts of the world, natural body scent is celebrated and even considered an aphrodisiac, while in others, it’s something to be hidden or neutralized with deodorants and perfumes.

• In Ancient Cultures: Body scent was often seen as a reflection of health and vitality. Ancient Egyptians were among the first to create perfumes and oils, but they also recognized the sexual power of scent. There are even depictions of lovers inhaling each other’s natural body odor as a form of bonding.

• Western Societies: In much of the modern West, there has been a strong emphasis on hygiene and masking natural body odors, especially since the 19th century. The rise of deodorants and antiperspirants has created a cultural narrative that body odor is unpleasant or undesirable. This cultural aversion to natural scent has likely contributed to the stigma surrounding fetishes that focus on smell, including the underarm fetish.

• Other Parts of the World: In contrast, in some parts of Asia and Africa, natural scent is less stigmatized. It’s not uncommon for couples to embrace each other’s natural smells, seeing it as a sign of closeness and intimacy. In these cultures, the idea of a fetish related to body scent, including underarms, may be less taboo.

Fetish Communities and Resources

The internet has made it easier than ever for people with niche fetishes to connect, share experiences, and build communities. For those with an underarm fetish, there are several online spaces where individuals can discuss their interests openly and without judgment. These platforms provide a safe environment for people to explore their desires and learn from others.

• FetLife: One of the largest social networking sites for people with fetishes, FetLife is home to a wide variety of kinks, including underarm fetishism. Users can join groups, post about their experiences, and connect with others who share similar interests.

• Reddit: There are multiple Reddit communities dedicated to fetishes, including those focused on armpits. These subreddits allow users to ask questions, share pictures (with consent), and discuss the intricacies of the fetish.

• Armpit Fetish Forums: There are niche forums and websites specifically dedicated to underarm fetishism. These sites often feature discussions on techniques, preferences, and personal stories, as well as opportunities for community building.

• Tumblr and Blogs: Although Tumblr has shifted its content policies, some blogs still focus on fetish content, including underarm fetishism. Many of these blogs offer an inclusive space for individuals to explore their sexuality in a positive, affirming way.

Safety and Consent in Fetish Play

As with any fetish or kink, it’s essential to prioritize safety and consent when engaging in underarm fetish play. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

1. Communicate: Before engaging in any fetish-related activity, it’s crucial to have an open and honest conversation with your partner. Discuss boundaries, preferences, and what each of you is comfortable with. Consent should always be clear and enthusiastic.

2. Hygiene: While some people may be drawn to the natural scent of underarms, it’s still important to maintain good hygiene. Regular washing ensures that any play remains safe and pleasant for both partners. If you’re planning to involve licking or kissing underarms, make sure to check in with your partner about their comfort level and cleanliness preferences.

3. Safe Words: For those engaging in power play or submission dynamics, establishing a safe word is essential. This ensures that both partners have a way to communicate if they need to pause or stop the activity.

4. Respect Boundaries: Not everyone will be comfortable with the same aspects of an underarm fetish. Some may enjoy the scent, while others prefer tickling or worshipping. Always respect your partner’s boundaries and never pressure them into doing something they’re not okay with.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, an underarm fetish, like any other fetish, is a valid expression of human sexuality. While it may not be widely discussed or understood, those who enjoy this kink find it deeply satisfying, intimate, and exciting. Whether it’s the scent, the touch, or the vulnerability associated with underarms, this fetish offers a unique way to connect with a partner on a physical and psychological level.

Fetishes, no matter how uncommon or niche, are a natural part of the human experience. By embracing our desires and communicating openly with our partners, we can create fulfilling, consensual, and enriching sexual experiences. So, whether you’re curious about underarm fetishism or already a dedicated enthusiast, remember: there’s no right or wrong way to enjoy your body or your partner’s, as long as both of you are comfortable and happy.