Approximate reading time: 5 minutes

Interoception, Unmyelinated Nerves, and Consent

Unmyelinated nerves are like electrical wires without insulation. They don’t have a protective myelin sheath, so they send signals more slowly than myelinated nerves. The signal moves in a smooth, continuous wave along these nerves. These unmyelinated nerves are important for picking up feelings from inside our body, like how full your stomach is, if you’re feeling warm, or if you are feeling sexual arousal. Unmyelinated nerves are approximately 7 times slower[1] than the fast moving signals on myelinated nerves. What does nerve conduction along unmyelinated nerves have to do with sexual arousal?

Nerve conduction along unmyelinated nerves is crucial for sensing sexual arousal because these nerves are responsible for transmitting the slower, more gradual sensations associated with sexual arousal. Unlike the quick, sharp pain of a finger cut transmitted by fast myelinated nerves, the sensations of sexual arousal are more complex and diffuse. They involve a mix of different types of nerve fibres, including unmyelinated ones.

Since unmyelinated nerves are slower (about 7 times slower than myelinated nerves), sexual arousal signals take longer to reach the brain. This slower transmission is suitable for the nature of sexual arousal, which typically builds up gradually rather than occurring instantaneously. The unmyelinated nerves provide the necessary time frame for this gradual increase in sensation, contributing to the overall experience of sexual arousal.

Understanding how unmyelinated nerves contribute to the gradual crescendo of sexual arousal sensations is crucial. It brings us to an important consideration in human relationships, particularly in the context of consent. Just as the body takes time to process these complex sensations through slower nerve transmissions, individuals also need time to understand and interpret their feelings and responses. This aspect of interoception — the internal perception of bodily sensations — plays a vital role in how we make decisions about our bodies and interactions with others. How often do you take a moment to consciously tune in to your physical sensations and emotions throughout the day?

Given the individual variability in how sensations are processed, it’s essential to recognize that each person’s timeline for understanding these feelings can differ. Therefore, when it comes to giving consent, it’s important to allow time for each person to pause and reflect. They should check in with their inner physical sensations, sexual arousal (or its absence), and romantic attraction (or its absence). This process cannot be rushed. Consent given too quickly, without allowing enough time for us to check in with our bodies and emotions, may not be fully informed by our inner experiences and needs. For example, someone might need a few moments to understand their comfort level with a situation. Can you recall a recent situation where you responded quickly to something without checking how you felt physically or emotionally? How might the outcome have been different if you had taken more time to understand your feelings? What strategies or practices could you implement to become more attuned to your bodily sensations and emotions, especially in moments when you need to make decisions?

In summary, just as unmyelinated fibres take longer to transmit signals to the brain than myelinated fibres, we should allow ample time for the personal reflection and self-awareness needed before giving informed consent. This approach ensures that consent is fully informed and respectful of each individual’s unique experience and processing time.