Types of Sex

Vaginal sex (penile/vaginal intercourse)
Oral Sex
Anal sex (intercourse)

Vaginal Sex (Penile/Vaginal Intercourse)

This is what many people mean when they talk about "sex." It's when a penis is put into a vagina. There are many positions for having vaginal sex and it's good to explore and find out what feels good for you.

What about pregnancy and STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections)?

Penis to vagina penetration can lead to pregnancy because sperm is released, through precum or ejaculation, into the vagina.

It is possible to spread STIs and HIV through vaginal sex if one partner has an infection. This is because fluids, in this case, semen and vaginal fluids can be exchanged between partners. There is also skin-to-skin touching of genitals, which can spread some STIs.

It is important to use a condom correctly when having vaginal sex to reduce the risk of pregnancy and the spread of STIs. Touching the genitals of someone who has an infection and then touching your own genitals can spread some STIs. To be extra safe, you can use a latex glove when touching genitals to reduce the risk.

Back to Top

Oral Sex

This is when a person uses their mouth to suck, lick, or kiss another person's penis, vagina, clitoris, or anus. It is also called "blow job", "going down", and "giving head." Oral sex can be very pleasurable, and some people enjoy it as much as, or even more, than intercourse.

There are three kinds of oral sex:

Fellatio - mouth to penis
Cunnilingus - mouth to vulva (area surrounding and including the vagina)
Analingus (“Rimming”) - mouth to anus

What about pregnancy and STIs?

You cannot get pregnant from receiving or giving oral sex.

However, it is possible to spread STIs. STIs such as herpes and genital warts can live on the skin of the vulva, penis and surrounding areas. There is also the possibility of exchanging fluids during oral sex.

With cunnilingus, vaginal fluids can enter the mouth. With fellatio, semen and precum can enter the mouth. With rimming, it is possible to become infected with some STIs as well as other infections. If the person receiving oral sex is infected with an STI his/her body fluids have the possibility of entering the other person's blood stream through a cut or sore in the mouth. It is then possible for STIs to be spread. It's important to be aware of the possibility of STI transmission during oral sex and to use a barrier to prevent STIs from spreading between partners.

Back to Top

Anal Sex (Intercourse)

This is when a penis is put into another person's anus. A common misconception is that only gay men practice it. The reality is that some gay men do not have anal sex. It is is a sexual activity that is practiced by people of different backgrounds and sexual orientations. There are straight couples that enjoy anal stimulation and others who choose not to.

Anal sex is not as messy as one might think it would be, because the lower anus/rectum is usually empty. However, it is also true that naturally occurring germs in the anus can cause an infection if they are exposed to other parts of the body. This means if a penis, finger or dildo touches the anus, it is important to wash it with soap and water before putting it in contact with your partner's vagina or mouth.

What about pregnancy and STIs?

You cannot get pregnant by having anal sex.

However, STIs, including HIV, can be passed between partners. Anal sex without a condom is risky for spreading STIs because the lining of the rectum is delicate and can tear and bleed, allowing viruses to enter the receiver's bloodstream. It is important to use a condom and lubricant when having penis-anus intercourse to prevent the spread of STIs.

Back to Top