Sexual Health

Articles in the Sexual Health section focus on topics such as safe practices, reproductive well-being, and advice for maintaining a healthy and fulfilling intimate life.


  • Everything You Need to Know About Water Sex

    Everything You Need to Know About Water Sex

    There’s something about sex in water that feels inherently freeing. Maybe it’s the sense of adventure or the amplified closeness. Or perhaps it’s the allure of wading into literal unknown waters. That said, there are hazards to keep in mind — from slipping and getting an infection to accidentally breaking laws you’d rather avoid. But […]

  • Orgasmic Labor and Birth: Could It Be for You?

    Orgasmic Labor and Birth: Could It Be for You?

    By the time you became pregnant, you probably noticed countless scenes on television and in movies depicting births as painful, chaotic events — full of loud cries, frantic faces and maybe a partner’s hand getting squeezed in the drama. (img by Orgasmic Birth) But what if childbirth didn’t have to resemble that at all? What […]

  • What to Expect from a Full-Body Orgasm, Solo or Partnered

    What to Expect from a Full-Body Orgasm, Solo or Partnered

    Sing along: Heaaaad, shoulders, vulva/peen and toes. Picture this — beyond being an adult spin on a childhood tune — that list could represent (some of) the body parts involved in an orgasm. Well, with full-body orgasms, it really can. “Full-body orgasms describe exceptionally powerful climaxes that feel like they’re occurring throughout your entire body,” […]

  • Penile Melanosis

    Penile Melanosis

    While treatment is generally unnecessary for penile melanosis, available choices for those who want intervention include surgical excision or laser therapy. (img by Slideshare) Penile melanosis is typically a benign condition marked by small areas of darker skin on the penis. This discoloration is a form of hyperpigmentation, occurring when melanin (the brown pigment) accumulates […]

  • 11 Causes of Penis Irritation and What to Do About It

    11 Causes of Penis Irritation and What to Do About It

    It goes without saying that a rash on your penis is uncomfortable, so figuring out what’s behind it is crucial. Causes can range from eczema and allergic responses to more serious issues such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Irritation of the penis is an unpleasant but fairly common issue. You may notice pain, itching, swelling, […]

  • What Causes Penile Discoloration?

    What Causes Penile Discoloration?

    Many causes of penile color changes are benign, including sexual arousal, bruising, and common dermatologic issues. Less frequent but more serious causes include lichen sclerosus and penile cancer, though the latter is uncommon. During sexual arousal, increased blood flow to the penis can give it a reddish to purplish hue as vessels and the glans […]

  • How to Identify, Treat, and Prevent Friction Burn on Your Penis

    How to Identify, Treat, and Prevent Friction Burn on Your Penis

    Chafing or friction burns on the penis can result from vigorous sexual activity, masturbation, or wearing snug clothing. Being gentler during sexual activity or self-stimulation can help reduce the risk of friction-related injuries. Burns happen when the skin meets a very hot source. In the case of friction burns, the heat is generated by rubbing […]

  • Do Nipple Piercings Hurt? What to Expect

    Do Nipple Piercings Hurt? What to Expect

    Getting your nipples pierced usually produces a sharp, short-lived sting. Persistent or intense pain, however, can signal an infection or another problem that needs medical attention. There’s no avoiding the truth — nipple piercings are typically painful. Not surprising, since you’re making a hole through an area rich in nerve endings. That said, the intensity […]

  • Condom Size Chart: How Length, Width, and Girth Measure Up Across Brands

    Condom Size Chart: How Length, Width, and Girth Measure Up Across Brands

    Condom dimensions differ between manufacturers. Picking one that’s too tight or too loose can cause problems. Does condom size matter? Sex is more likely to be unpleasant if the condom doesn’t fit properly. A condom that’s either too big or too small can slide off or rupture, which raises the chance of pregnancy or transmitting […]

  • 32 Condom Alternatives to Consider — and What Not to Use

    32 Condom Alternatives to Consider — and What Not to Use

    Love gloves. Rubbers. Shrinks. Cock socks. For something that 44 percent of people rarely or never use, condoms sure have acquired a lot of nicknames. While the evidence is clear that condoms are highly effective at preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and pregnancy — when used properly — we spoke with a few sexual-health specialists […]