What is Sex, Exactly?

5 Different Kinds of Sex Defined

Think "sex" only means one thing? Think again! The word "sex" encompasses a lot of different types of sexual activities. The definitions of the main ones are below, along with how risky they are. If you want to learn more, follow the really useful links under each heading.

1. Vaginal Sex

Vaginal sex is what most people think of as "sex" - specifically, when a man's penis enters a woman's vagina. It's the only form of sex that can lead to pregnancy, and it can spread sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), too.

• Facts About Vaginal Sex
• Your Most Embarrassing Sex Questions Answered
• Safe Sex 101
• 10 Signs That You're Ready for Sex
• 20 Facts About Your First Time

2. Oral Sex

Oral sex is any kind of sex that involves contact between mouth and genitals. Oral sex can't get you pregnant, but it can spread the same STDs that vaginal sex can - which means that if you want to do it safely, you must use a condom or dental dam.

• All About Oral Sex
• How to Perform Safer Oral Sex
• Can You Get an STD From Oral Sex?
• Does Oral Sex Count as Sex?

3. Anal Sex

Anal sex is any type of sex that involves pentrating someone's anus. It carries the same risks of disease as vaginal sex and oral sex.

• What's the Deal With Anal Sex?
• Does Anal Sex Hurt?
• Do All Gay Guys Have Anal Sex?
• 5 Myths About Anal Sex

4. Masturbation

Masturbation means touching yourself in order to feel sexual pleasure. Since you're doing it by yourself, there's no risk of pregnancy or STD - making masturbation the safest form of sex there is.

• Answers to Your Questions About Masturbation
• 10 Things to Know About Masturbation
• Masturbation Facts & Myths

5. Mutual Masturbation

Mutual masturbation means masturbating in front of a partner. Since there's no genital contact between you and the other person, it's a safe form of sex that can't spread STDs or lead to pregnancy.

• What's Mutual Masturbation?
• Mutual Masturbation - Safe Sex

More Info About Sex

• Your Embarrassing Sex Questions Answered
• 10 Signs That You're Ready for Sex
• How to Have the Sex Talk with Your Parents

Safe Sex Info

• Safe Sex 101
• Birth Control Methods for Teens
• Stupid Reasons for Teens to Get Pregnant

Quizzes About Sex

• Sex: Do You Know Your Stuff?
• Are You Ready to Have Sex?
• Are You a Pregnancy Waiting to Happen?

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