It involves humiliation, or being made to suffer.
Sexual masochism is more common in males, but the incidence in females appears to be on the rise.
Masochists often seek partners to tie them up, humiliate, blindfold, or hurt them. They may enjoy being whipped, beaten, shocked, cut, or pierced. Verbal abuse is common. Some masochists require pain or humiliation in order to function sexually. They may act on their urges by hurting themselves or tying themselves up.