Sex means many different things. A person’s sexuality includes everything from their biological sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity to pregnancy and reproduction. Sexuality is an important part of every human being. While sexuality can include many things, not all of them are always experienced or expressed. A person’s sexual health includes their physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual wellbeing. Being sexually healthy is important to overall health and wellness.
While sex means all the things mentioned above, it also includes sexual activities – having sex.
| Masturbation | A person touching their own genitals (vulva/vagina or penis) for sexual pleasure. |
| Digital Sex | Using fingers or hands on someone else’s genitals (vulva/vagina or penis). |
| Oral Sex | Using the mouth, lips, or tongue on someone else’s genitals (vulva/vagina or penis). |
| Vaginal Sex | Inserting a penis or a sex toy in the vagina. |
| Anal Sex | Inserting a penis or sex toy in the anus (the opening of the bum). |
It is important to remember that engaging in sexual activities can lead to sexually transmitted infections (STI’s) or unplanned pregnancy. The only sure way to prevent pregnancy and STI’s is abstinence – not having sex. If you decide to have sex, always use protection.
Masturbation is the safest form of sex, as a person cannot get pregnant or get an STI from masturbating. Masturbation is a personal choice. It is common and many people (both male and female) choose to masturbate. Masturbation is a normal and healthy way for people to explore their sexuality and learn what feels good and what does not.