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.
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 engorge with blood. However, there are other potential explanations for a penis shifting to an…
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 against a rough surface such as carpet, concrete, or fabric. Estimating how common penile friction…
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 varies. Not everyone experiences severe pain, and there are factors that can increase or decrease…
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 infections. It may also interfere with your ability to reach orgasm. That’s why it’s important…
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 to see whether there are any viable alternatives for those who avoid condoms. Condoms remain…
The One Disadvantage of Ribbed and Dotted Condoms — and How to Prevent It
Enhanced feeling! More enjoyment! Better sex! That’s the tagline behind textured condoms. But there’s a detail that those ads for ribbed and dotted condoms often omit. (img by हैलो स्वास्थ्य) What’s the situation? While the added texture can, for some people, heighten the experience, folks with extra-sensitive areas may find them maddeningly irritating. Texas-based sex educator Goody Howard notes that a bit of friction during penetrative sex can feel great…
Everything You Need to Know About Dry Humping
Dry humping refers to grinding erotically without penetration. When done well, it can deliver sensations similar to other sexual activities and be pleasurable for both partners. Keep reading to discover techniques, positions to try, and extra tips. (img by Iroha) Is it safe? Generally, yes — dry humping is relatively low risk. There’s no pregnancy risk, but you can still contract a sexually transmitted infection (STI) if you’re not careful.…
Which Essential Oils Can Help You Set the Mood for Intimacy?
Foreplay, cuddles, kisses, champagne, and oysters can all prime you for intimacy. Certain essential oils are also thought to have aphrodisiac effects and may help set the mood. Research indicates a number of essential oils may act as aphrodisiacs when inhaled before or during sex. In fact, certain intense smells can induce erections, and women with a keener sense of smell tend to experience more orgasms during intercourse.
What Can Affect Penile Sensitivity and How to Increase It
Several factors can lead to reduced penile sensation, ranging from how you masturbate to everyday habits, hormonal shifts, and certain drugs. Penile sensitivity describes how responsive the nerves in the penis are to sexual stimulation, which may stem from physical, psychological, or hormonal causes. For many people, sensitivity plays a big role in the ability to achieve and sustain an erection, so diminished sensitivity can make erections harder to obtain.…
How to Be Careful with Testicles During Sex
The time is now for testicle play Anyone who has testicles — or has inadvertently kneed someone who does — understands that the balls are extremely sensitive. “For better or worse, the scrotum is loaded with nerve endings that can generate very intense sensations,” says Dr. Evan Goldstein, CEO and founder of Bespoke Surgical. “And with the appropriate touch, that feeling can be pleasurable.” As clinical sexologist Dr. Megan Stubbs,…
