Glossary of Sexual Orientation/Gender Terminology

Sexual orientation and gender are immensely complex, and the various terminologies related to them can be very confusing. Below is a list of definitions to help provide a clear understanding of various terms surrounding sexual orientation and gender.  DISCLAIMER: Some of the following terms are derogatory, offensive, and outdated, and should not be used as…

If You Think You Have an Eating Disorder

An eating disorder is a mental illness that is characterized by irregular eating behaviors and patterns coupled with concern and distress over body shape and weight.1 People struggling with an eating disorder may use starvation, purging, or other behaviors to control their physical appearance. Although eating disorders typically develop during adolescence, anyone can develop one…

Sexual Positions for Pregnant Couples

Pregnant individuals may worry about how pregnancy will affect their sex lives, as their bodies undergo significant changes. Often, favored sex positions can become awkward or uncomfortable as the pregnancy advances and the baby continues to grow. Pregnant couples are free to engage in sexual activity as long as a doctor has not advised them…

Personal First Time Sex Stories

Deciding to have sex for the first time or “losing your virginity” can be an important moment in a person’s life. For many people, it does not turn out exactly as planned. If your first time was not how you imagined it or if you are nervous about it happening, we want to ensure you…

Safe and Dangerous Dieting: The Fad Dieting Epidemic

What Is a Fad Diet? Due to an increased exposure to “ideal body types” in society, weight loss has become the focus of advertisements, social media accounts, health programs, and even social groups. Nowadays, it is difficult to engage with pop culture and the news without hearing about some type of new diet or weight…

Bodily Autonomy

Bodily autonomy is defined as the right to self governance over one’s own body without external influence or coercion. It is generally considered to be a fundamental human right. Bodily autonomy relates to the concept of affirmative consent, which requires full and eager participation in any sexual encounter. Bodily autonomy is also applicable to each…

Regulation of Sexual Media Materials in Different Countries

Obscenity is generally defined as the state of being indecent, offensive to morality, or sexually explicit; however, every government and person has a different standard for what constitutes obscenity. Just as governments vary in their definition of obscenity, there is also variance in how they might restrict what they determine to be obscene material. Generally,…

Non-Sexual Transmission of STIs

Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, are conditions typically passed from one person to another through sexual contact.. Despite their name, it is possible to transmit STIs through non-sexual interactions; however, non-sexual transmission of STIs is less common and often treatable. Misunderstanding what constitutes sexual activity, poor hygiene practices, and transmission from a pregnant parent to…

When Pornography Becomes a Problem

Watching pornography is a generally an acceptable and positive way for a person to express their sexuality. However, it can also cause a person distress if they feel they are watching it too often or feel they are losing control of their habit. How Much Is Too Much? There is no “normal” amount of pornography to consume….