What is sex?
You may think that sex is just when the penis goes into the vagina. But it can be more than that. Sex can be done in many ways, and it is natural. It is also meant to be enjoyed.
What can sex look like for you?
There are many ways to have sex. Sex can either involve penetration or not. Most importantly, you and your partner need to both agree to what you are doing so you feel safe which is known as consent.
Vaginal sex
This is when a penis or another object such as a sex toy or finger(s) goes inside a vagina.
Oral sex
This is most commonly known as going down, eating out, giving a blow job or giving head. It is when a person uses their mouth to stimulate another person’s genitals or anus. You can’t get pregnant from oral sex, but you can get sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This is why it’s important to use a condom (put on penis or sex toy). You can also use a dental dam. A dental dam is a latex sheet that is put on the mouth as barrier.
Anal sex
This happens when your anus is penetrated or when you penetrate someone anally. Penetration can be via someone’s penis, fingers, sex toys or other objects.
It is important to use a condom when having anal sex to prevent against HIV and other STIs. You can also use lubricants (water-based only) to make sure there are no injuries and to make sure that the condom doesn’t tear.
Masturbation (touching yourself)
This includes when you touch or rub parts of your body that give you pleasure (make you feel good). These can be your breasts, anus, vagina, penis, or hair among other areas. Masturbation also includes fingering of the vagina and anus or jerking off or using sex toys. Masturbation is a good way to learn about what kind of touch you enjoy.
What is an orgasm?
An orgasm is the release of tension that can happen during sex or masturbation, and it feels good. Having an orgasm is also known as coming/cumming, climaxing or ejaculating. During an orgasm, you might: feel warmer, feel your heart rate increase, feel your muscles relax, and feel pleasure in your genitals or even your whole body.
Other common sexual or sensual activities:
- Touching
- Kissing
- Phone sex (sexting)
- Hugging
- Cuddling
- Sharing fantasies
- Massaging
You don’t need to have penetration to enjoy sex. Sex can happen in different ways, and everyone has their own preferences.
Before you have sex, you need to think about what things you feel comfortable doing, you must ask what the other person feels comfortable doing and think about any risks involved like STIs or unplanned pregnancy as well as how to prevent both.
Are you thinking about having sex? There are important things to think about. Check them out here.
The best kind of sex is sex where everyone involved wants to be! Find out more about consent here.
Not wanting to have sex right now is completely okay! Find out more here.
