Aftercare is the time and attention given after a scene or intense play session to help everyone involved return to a calm, steady state. It can include physical care like water, blankets, or gentle touch, as well as emotional check-ins and quiet conversation.
For many people, the physical and emotional intensity of a scene leaves them feeling raw or shaky afterward, and aftercare is how they come down safely. It is often discussed and planned before play so both partners know what each person needs and can ask for adjustments.
Worth knowing: Aftercare needs should be discussed before a scene, since a person may not be able to communicate clearly once subspace or subdrop sets in, and skipping it can leave lasting emotional or physical strain.
Also called: post-scene care, cool-down, debriefing, drop care, afterplay
