Sexual Health

Masturbation plays a multifaceted role in sexual health, and it is generally considered a normal and healthy part of human sexuality. Here are some of the key aspects of its role in sexual health:

1. Self-exploration: Masturbation allows individuals to explore their own bodies, learn about their sexual preferences, and discover what feels good to them. This can contribute to a positive body image and help with sexual self-awareness. In young people, masturbation can be a way to practice and understand their body before they are ready for sex with a partner.

2. Stress relief: Masturbation can be a way to relieve stress and tension. The release of endorphins during orgasm can lead to a sense of relaxation and well-being, which can help alleviate anxiety, promote better sleep, and improve mood.

3. Sexual satisfaction: Masturbation provides a way to experience sexual pleasure independently of a partner. This can be especially important in situations where one is not in a sexual relationship or when a partner is unavailable or has different sexual needs. Pent up sexual desire can lead a person to rush into sexual situations they are not psychologically ready for or do not actually want to participate in. Masturbation is a way to release that sexual energy. 

4. Improved sexual function: For some individuals, regular masturbation may help maintain or improve sexual function. It can help with pelvic floor muscle tone, improve blood flow to the genital area, and contribute to better sexual health over time. It may also help individuals with erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation by promoting greater sexual control and confidence.

5. Increased intimacy in relationships: Masturbation can also be a healthy part of sexual relationships. For example, partners may masturbate together or discuss their desires openly, which can increase intimacy and improve communication in relationships. Although this can be highly dependent on cultural norms. 

6. No risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Masturbation is a form of sexual activity that does not involve risk of STI transmission, making it a safer option for sexual expression.

7.  Relief from Menstrual Cramps

For individuals with a menstrual cycle, masturbation may help relieve menstrual cramps. The muscle contractions during orgasm can reduce the intensity of cramping by increasing blood flow to the pelvic region and releasing tension.

8.  Immune System Boost

Some studies have suggested that sexual activity, including masturbation, may boost immune system function by increasing levels of certain antibodies that help fight infections.

9. Myth-busting and mental health: It's important to note that masturbation is often surrounded by myths, such as ideas about it being unhealthy or shameful. These myths can contribute to guilt or anxiety, which can negatively impact mental and emotional well-being. In reality, masturbation is generally a natural and healthy sexual behavior that does not cause harm when done in moderation.

These affects of masturbation have been scientifically study and published in resources like the American Urological Association, American Psychological Association, Mayo Clinic, and the Journal of Sexual Medicine.

While masturbation is generally safe and healthy, it's important to ensure that it does not interfere with daily life, relationships, or responsibilities.

This information is speaking to masturbation only not the use of pornography the use of pornography generates other mental health impacts and societal issues with objectification.

Even though masturbation is a big aspect to sexual health, it is taboo in many cultures and considered a sin or wrong in many religions. We will discuss this in our lesson on the impact of culture and religion on sex. 

Pornography has always been a point of societal controversy. As technology has advanced so has pornography. It was originally paintings, then just photographs, then movies on film. Now with the digital age everyone has a video camera in their pocket. Pornography is easier than ever to make and it is everywhere.

Pornography is something that triggers the pleasure receptors in our brain. Anything that does that has the potential to be addictive and bad for us. Think of it like fast food. If you eat fast food a couple times a year it probably has no ill affects on your body, but if you eat fast food every day...or worse three times a day what does it do to your body? Pornography can have a devastating impact on a persons mental and emotional state.

I want to start by saying pornography is considered immoral in most religions. But we will talk more about that in the religion sections.

When you first see pornography it is shocking and exciting. It is like seeing your first action movie. But quickly you can become desensitized and the thrill is no longer the same. Being aroused from seeing the naked human form is normal and mostly harmless. It is when we push boundaries and get more extreme with our consumption. Pornography websites have algorithms just like any type of social media. If you watch something just because you are curious, the algorithm will soon show you more and more.

One danger is a disconnect from sexual reality. Sexual interactions are meant to be enthusiastically consensual, a slow exploration of your partners body, a process of getting to know each other physically. But pornography rarely shows that. Instead it is often one person taking advantage of another, using them for pleasure. This can warp a persons expectations of what sex should look like.

There is also a lot of misogyny embedded in pornography. This can lead males to believe women are something to use simply for pleasure and it can lead women to believe they have to allow themselves to be used. Sexual encounters should come from a place of mutual respect. 

Sexual encounters are meant to be exciting but if someone consumes large amounts of pornography, the desensitization can lesson real encounters.  

There are several types of birth control, each with different methods of preventing pregnancy. Here's a list of the main types:

1. Barrier Methods:

   • Condoms (male and female): Prevent sperm from entering the uterus.

   • Diaphragm: A dome-shaped device placed inside the vagina to cover the cervix and block sperm.

   • Cervical Cap: Similar to the diaphragm but smaller, also blocking sperm from entering the uterus.

   • Spermicide: A chemical that kills sperm, often used with other barrier methods.

2. Hormonal Methods:

   • Birth Control Pills: Oral contraceptives that use hormones to prevent ovulation.

   • Patches: A small patch worn on the skin that releases hormones to prevent ovulation.

   • Vaginal Ring: A flexible ring placed inside the vagina that releases hormones to prevent pregnancy.

   • Injectable Birth Control: A shot of hormones given every three months to prevent pregnancy.

   • Implants: Small rods inserted under the skin of the arm that release hormones over time.

   • Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Pills taken after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy.

3. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs):

   • Copper IUD: A small T-shaped device placed in the uterus that prevents sperm from fertilizing an egg.

   • Hormonal IUD: A T-shaped device that releases hormones to prevent pregnancy.

4. Permanent Methods:

   • Sterilization (Tubal Ligation for women, Vasectomy for men): Surgical procedures to permanently prevent pregnancy by blocking or cutting the reproductive tubes.

5. Fertility Awareness Methods:

   • Natural Family Planning: Involves tracking the menstrual cycle and avoiding sex on fertile days.

6. Withdrawal:

   • Pull-out Method: Involves the male partner withdrawing before ejaculation to prevent sperm from entering the vagina.

Each method has different effectiveness rates, side effects, and considerations depending on individual needs and health.

The most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can vary slightly by region and population, but the following are some of the most frequently reported STIs worldwide:

1. Chlamydia

• Cause: Bacterial infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis.

• Symptoms: Often mild or absent, but can include painful urination, abnormal discharge, or pelvic pain. If untreated, it can cause serious health issues like infertility.

• Treatment: Antibiotics (usually a single dose or a short course).

• Prevention: Condoms can significantly reduce the risk, as can regular testing if you're sexually active.

2. Gonorrhea

• Cause: Bacterial infection caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

• Symptoms: Similar to chlamydia, it often has no symptoms, but when they do occur, they may include burning while urinating, abnormal discharge, or pelvic pain.

• Treatment: Antibiotics (often a combination of drugs).

• Prevention: Condoms help prevent transmission.

3. Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

• Cause: Viral infection caused by the Human Papillomavirus.

• Symptoms: Most types of HPV don’t cause symptoms and go away on their own. Some strains can cause genital warts, and others may lead to cervical cancer (for women) or other cancers.

• Treatment: No cure for the virus itself, but vaccines (like Gardasil) can protect against the most high-risk strains. Warts can be treated, and cancer can be prevented with regular screenings.

• Prevention: Vaccination and condom use can reduce the risk, though not eliminate it completely.

4. Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)

• Cause: Viral infection caused by Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), with two types: HSV-1 (usually oral herpes) and HSV-2 (usually genital herpes).

• Symptoms: Painful blisters or sores around the mouth or genitals. However, many people have no symptoms or very mild ones.

• Treatment: There’s no cure, but antiviral medications can reduce outbreaks and the risk of transmission.

• Prevention: Using condoms, avoiding sex during outbreaks, and taking antiviral medications can help prevent transmission.

5. Syphilis

• Cause: Bacterial infection caused by Treponema pallidum.

• Symptoms: It develops in stages: first, painless sores (chancres), followed by a rash, and if untreated, can lead to severe complications such as damage to organs and nervous system.

• Treatment: Antibiotics (usually penicillin).

• Prevention: Condoms reduce the risk, but syphilis can be transmitted through contact with sores or rashes that aren't always covered by condoms.

6. Trichomoniasis (Trich)

• Cause: Parasitic protozoan infection caused by Trichomonas vaginalis.

• Symptoms: Often causes no symptoms, but can lead to irritation, itching, and abnormal discharge. In some cases, it may cause pain during urination or sex.

• Treatment: Antibiotics (usually metronidazole).

• Prevention: Condoms are effective at reducing the risk of transmission.

7. HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)

• Cause: Viral infection that attacks the immune system, specifically CD4 cells (T cells).

• Symptoms: Early symptoms can mimic flu-like symptoms, but the infection can remain undetected for years. If untreated, it can progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), which severely weakens the immune system.

• Treatment: While there is no cure, HIV can be managed with antiretroviral therapy (ART) to reduce viral load and prevent progression to AIDS.

• Prevention: Condoms, regular testing, and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for those at high risk can prevent transmission.

8. Hepatitis B

• Cause: Viral infection that affects the liver, caused by Hepatitis B virus.

• Symptoms: Some people don’t show symptoms, but when they do occur, they include fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain, and dark urine. Chronic infection can lead to liver disease or liver cancer.

• Treatment: There is no cure, but antiviral medications can help manage it. Vaccination is available to prevent Hepatitis B.

• Prevention: Vaccination, condoms, and not sharing needles can prevent transmission.

9. Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

• Cause: An imbalance of bacteria in the vagina, not technically an STI but often related to sexual activity.

• Symptoms: Abnormal vaginal discharge, fishy odor, itching, or irritation.

• Treatment: Antibiotics (oral or topical).

• Prevention: Avoiding douching, using condoms, and limiting sexual partners can help reduce the risk.

10. Pubic Lice (Crabs)

• Cause: Parasitic infestation caused by Pthirus pubis (pubic lice).

• Symptoms: Intense itching in the genital area and visible lice or eggs in pubic hair.

• Treatment: Over-the-counter or prescription lice treatments (shampoos, creams).

• Prevention: Avoiding direct contact with infested areas, such as through sexual activity.

Prevention Tips:

• Condoms: Consistent and correct use of condoms is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of most STIs.

• Regular testing: Especially if you're sexually active, regular testing can help catch infections early and prevent transmission.

• Vaccination: Vaccines are available for HPV and Hepatitis B, and can significantly reduce your risk of these infections.

• Communication: Open communication with your sexual partner(s) about STI testing and protection is key to reducing risk.

Pregnancy is a complex process that involves a series of stages, from conception to the development of a baby over approximately nine months. Here's a detailed explanation of the key steps:

1. Fertilization

Fertilization occurs when a sperm cell from a male fertilizes an egg from a female. This typically happens in the fallopian tube after ovulation. After ovulation, the egg is viable for about 12–24 hours, and sperm can live up to five days in the female reproductive tract. If sperm meets the egg within this time frame, fertilization occurs.

• Key Events:

  • Sperm penetrates the egg, combining their genetic material.

  • The fertilized egg, now called a zygote, starts to divide and grow as it travels toward the uterus.

2. Implantation

The zygote undergoes multiple cell divisions as it moves through the fallopian tube toward the uterus. After about 3–4 days, it forms a structure called a blastocyst. This blastocyst reaches the uterus and implants itself into the thickened lining of the uterus (the endometrium). This is called implantation and typically happens around 6–10 days after fertilization.

• Key Events:

  • The blastocyst burrows into the uterine lining.

  • The cells that make up the blastocyst start to form the placenta, which will provide nutrients and oxygen to the developing baby.

  • The embryo begins to develop.

3. Embryonic Development (Weeks 1–8)

Once the blastocyst implants in the uterus, it begins to develop into an embryo. The placenta and umbilical cord start to form, providing a connection between the developing baby and the mother’s blood supply. During this stage, the embryo goes through rapid cell division and starts developing basic structures, including the heart, brain, and spinal cord. The major organs begin to form during these weeks.

• Key Events:

  • Formation of the placenta and umbilical cord.

  • Early development of organs and systems (e.g., the heart starts beating, neural tube forms, etc.).

  • By the end of the 8th week, the embryo is called a fetus.

4. Fetal Development (Weeks 9–40)

After the embryonic stage, the developing baby is called a fetus. This is when the organs continue to develop and grow, and the fetus begins to look more like a baby. Major milestones during this stage include:

• Weeks 9–12:

  • External features such as fingers, toes, and facial features become more recognizable.

  • The fetus begins to move, though the movements are too small for the mother to feel.

• Weeks 13–24:

  • The fetus grows rapidly, and vital organs like the lungs and kidneys continue to mature.

  • The baby’s skin becomes more defined, and hair starts to grow.

  • Around 16–20 weeks, many women can feel the baby’s movements for the first time (called “quickening”).

  • By week 20, ultrasound images show the baby’s facial features, and its gender may be identifiable.

• Weeks 25–40:

  • The baby’s organs continue to mature, especially the lungs, which will allow the baby to breathe air after birth.

  • The baby continues to grow in size, and by 40 weeks, a full-term baby is typically between 5.5–8.5 pounds and around 18–22 inches long.

  • The fetus moves into a head-down position in preparation for birth.

5. Labor and Delivery

Labor is the process by which the body prepares to give birth. It involves a series of contractions that help open the cervix and push the baby through the birth canal. Labor is typically divided into three stages:

• Stage 1 – Early and Active Labor:

  • Contractions become more regular and intense.

  • The cervix dilates (opens) and effaces (thins out).

  • Early labor may last hours or even days, while active labor typically takes a few hours.

  • The cervix needs to dilate to 10 centimeters for delivery.

• Stage 2 – Delivery of the Baby:

  • Once the cervix is fully dilated, the mother begins to push with contractions to help move the baby through the birth canal.

  • The baby’s head typically emerges first, followed by the rest of the body.

  • After birth, the baby’s umbilical cord is clamped and cut.

• Stage 3 – Delivery of the Placenta:

  • After the baby is born, the placenta is delivered.

  • This stage typically lasts around 5–30 minutes.

6. Postpartum

After delivery, the body enters the postpartum period, which involves physical and emotional recovery for the mother. The uterus gradually shrinks back to its normal size, and hormone levels adjust. The mother may experience vaginal bleeding (lochia), and her body starts the process of healing from childbirth.

• Key Events:

  • Uterus returns to its pre-pregnancy size.

  • Hormone levels fluctuate, leading to changes in mood, milk production (if breastfeeding), and other bodily functions.

  • The mother may begin bonding with the baby and adjust to life with a newborn.

Summary of Key Steps:

1. Fertilization: Sperm and egg meet, forming a zygote.

2. Implantation: The zygote implants in the uterine lining, and early pregnancy begins.

3. Embryonic Development: Rapid development of organs and structures.

4. Fetal Development: Continued growth and maturing of organs; baby moves and grows.

5. Labor and Delivery: The baby is born through a series of contractions and pushing.

6. Postpartum: The body recovers, and the mother bonds with the newborn.

Pregnancy is a dynamic and individualized process, so the timeline and experience can vary between women. However, these are the general stages that most pregnancies follow.

There are many myths and misconceptions about getting pregnant that can lead to confusion. Here are some of the most common myths:

1. You Can't Get Pregnant on Your Period

Many people believe that pregnancy is impossible during menstruation, but this isn't true. While the chances are lower, it is still possible to conceive if you have unprotected sex during your period. Sperm can live inside the female reproductive tract for up to five days, so if you ovulate shortly after your period, sperm from intercourse during your period could fertilize the egg.

2. You Have to Have Sex Every Day to Get Pregnant

While having frequent sex can increase your chances of getting pregnant, you don’t have to have sex every single day. In fact, having sex every other day or during your fertile window (usually 5 days before ovulation and the day of ovulation) is often enough to maximize your chances. Sperm can survive in the fallopian tubes for several days, so timing can be more important than frequency.

3. The More Sex You Have, the More Likely You Are to Get Pregnant

While it’s true that frequent sex increases the likelihood of pregnancy, there’s no need to overdo it. Having sex during your fertile window is far more important than having sex every day or too often. In fact, some studies suggest that having sex every other day is the most effective strategy.

4. You Can't Get Pregnant If You're Breastfeeding

Many people think breastfeeding acts as a natural contraceptive, but it's not a reliable method of birth control. While breastfeeding can suppress ovulation in the early months after childbirth, it's not foolproof. Ovulation can occur before your period returns, and you can get pregnant even if you're breastfeeding. It's important to use contraception if you don't want to get pregnant.

5. You Can’t Get Pregnant After a Miscarriage

Some people believe that you can't get pregnant immediately after a miscarriage, but this isn't true. After a miscarriage, your body may return to its normal reproductive cycle quickly. Ovulation can occur as soon as two weeks after a miscarriage, and it's possible to get pregnant before you have your first period after the loss. It's recommended to speak to a healthcare provider about when it's safe to try again.

6. Certain Positions or Actions Can Help You Get Pregnant

There’s no scientific evidence to support the idea that certain sexual positions or actions, like lying down afterward, can increase your chances of pregnancy. While gravity may have a minimal effect on helping sperm reach the egg, what’s more important is the timing of intercourse and the health of both partners.

7. Age Doesn't Affect Fertility Until Later in Life

Many people think that age only starts to affect fertility once you hit your late 30s or early 40s, but age affects fertility earlier than most realize. Women’s fertility starts to decline in their late 20s to early 30s, and this decline accelerates after age 35. Sperm quality can also decline as men age, though the effect is more gradual compared to women.

8. A Woman's Period Must Be Regular to Get Pregnant

Though regular cycles make it easier to predict ovulation, women with irregular periods can still get pregnant. Ovulation may be less predictable, but with tracking methods (like basal body temperature or ovulation tests), it’s possible to identify when you're most fertile.

9. You Can’t Get Pregnant if You Only Have Sex Once

If you’re only having sex once, there is still a chance of getting pregnant if it occurs around your fertile window. Even having sex once can result in pregnancy if sperm meets the egg at the right time.

10. If You’ve Had Trouble Getting Pregnant Before, You Won’t Be Able to Get Pregnant Again

A previous difficulty with conception does not necessarily mean you will always have trouble. Many couples who experience difficulty conceive later on, and factors like changes in health, weight, and lifestyle can make a difference in future fertility. It’s also important to remember that fertility varies from person to person.

11. Contraception Is 100% Effective

No form of contraception is 100% effective, except for complete abstinence. Even with methods like the pill, IUD, or condoms, there is still a small chance of pregnancy. That’s why it’s important to use contraception correctly and consistently, and to discuss with a healthcare provider which method is right for you.

12. You Can’t Get Pregnant If You Don’t Orgasm

This is a myth because conception depends on sperm reaching and fertilizing an egg, not on the woman’s orgasm. Even if a woman does not orgasm during intercourse, sperm can still be released and may lead to pregnancy if ovulation occurs at the right time.

13. If You're Overweight, You Can’t Get Pregnant

While being overweight can affect fertility and may make it more challenging to conceive, many women who are overweight or obese do get pregnant. However, obesity can contribute to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which can affect ovulation. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help improve fertility in both men and women.