Defining “Losing Your Virginity” What exactly does “losing your virginity” mean? Virginity can be defined in different ways according to your sexual orientation, beliefs, and culture. Losing your virginity is often described as engaging in penetrative sex, including anal sex, for the first time. The definition can also be expanded to include oral sex and manual stimulation. Oftentimes, when sexual intercourse and virginity…
Tag: contraceptive
Intrauterine Device (IUD)
The IUD is a highly effective, long lasting form of birth control. The two different types, the hormonal IUD and the copper IUD, function in different ways, resulting in differing advantages and disadvantages. The IUD must be inserted by a trained health care professional, and it does not prevent against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). What Is…
Progestin-Only Pills
The progestin-only pill, also known as the “mini-pill,” is a type of oral contraceptive or oral birth control pill. The pill contains the hormone progestin and, unlike the combination pill, does not contain estrogen. Due to the lack of estrogen, many users report feeling fewer or no side effects compared to other oral contraceptives. One…
Diaphragm
The diaphragm, a shallow silicone cap, is a barrier method of birth control for people with vulvas. Inserted deep within the vagina, the diaphragm creates a seal against the cervix to prevent sperm from entering the uterus.1 Spermicidal foam, cream, or jelly is applied onto the diaphragm before insertion to immobilize and kill sperm before…
The Birth Control Shot
The birth control shot, most commonly known as Depo-Provera® or DMPA, is an injection of the progestin hormone.1 This hormone is injected into the arm or buttocks every three months in order to prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to pass through the cervix.1 Since the birth control shot…
Mittelschmerz (Painful Ovulation)
Mittelschmerz, German for “middle pain”, is also known as painful ovulation. It is a medical condition characterized by lower abdominal pain during ovulation that occurs midway through the menstrual cycle, about two weeks prior to the menstrual period.¹ Ovulation is the process in which an ovary releases an egg, or ovum, to be fertilized by…
The Catholic Church and Contraception
Historically, the Catholic Church and contraception have had a contentious relationship. As early as the second century, the Church took the firm position that the use of contraception—as well as the act of engaging in any form of recreational sex that does not lead to procreation—was considered sinful. Evidence of this belief dates back to the Didache, a second-century document…