Sex Glossary
- 3 min read
15 Sexual Health Terms To Remember
If you’re just beginning your sexual discoveries, you might be wondering: what is the definition of sexual health exactly? Sexual health, and sexual terms that follow, refers to the physical, mental, and emotional properties relating to sexuality and healthcare. It can involve healthy sexual relationship dynamics, safety and protection, and proper education. Stemming from these buckets are a variety of terms, 15 of which will be explored in this article.
From more common to lesser known phrases, this article unpacks vocabulary used to describe aspects of sexual health for all to easily understand. Cultural/slang, behavioural, and condom-related expressions will be detailed so you have a clear understanding of both street and book smart sayings that are must-knows for sex. Understanding both sexual health and terminology is essential for fostering open communication, education, and support for individual and collective wellbeing. Nothing feels better than being in the know.
Defining Sexual Health In Simple Terms
Navigating the clinical world of health jargon can feel overwhelming, especially when faced with unfamiliar terms that don’t seem practical. That’s why there’s this beginner-friendly guide just for you. You’ll come out of this short dictionary with more knowledge to make informed decisions regarding sex, and feel confident having conversations about sexual wellness.
Ever want more advice from those trusted parental sources but don’t know how to approach the discussions? Read How To Talk With Your Parents About Sexual Health for tactics that encourage talking it through.
Behavioural Sexual Health Terms
Consent – Defining sexual health often begins with consent, which is an explicit and mutual agreement to engage in sexual activity made with two or more people.
Kink – Often centered around consent and communication, a kink is a sexual behaviour, interest, or activity that usually falls outside mainstream ideas of sex. Kinks can include fetishes like BDSM or rough sex, among others.
Hookup Culture – Prominent in younger crowds, this is when people prioritize casual sexual encounters over committed relationships.
Abstinence – Practiced for personal, cultural, or religious reasons, abstinence is when someone chooses to not partake in sexual activities.
Serial Monogamy – Reflecting a pattern of commitment, this term describes the practice of having one exclusive relationship after another.
Slang Sexual Health Terms
Pull-Out Game – This “game” refers to the withdrawal method of taking the penis out of a penetrative hole while having sex before ejaculation. Without a condom, this is not safe. This slang move is best paired with condoms.
Raw – While it sounds like it has something to do with meat or seafood, raw as it relates to sexual activity means having sex without a condom (which Durex® Canada does not condone). Mentioned in more casual speech, it’s important to emphasize the risks of unprotected sex which can result in unwanted pregnancy and STIs.
Safe Word – This is an agreed upon word or phrase used during sexual activity to signify the need to slow down or stop the act. Popular safe words include ‘red light’, ‘stop’, and ‘apple’, however some may be more imaginative.
Getting Tested – Normalized in conversations around casual dating and hookups, this phrase describes undergoing STI testing at a sexual health clinic or doctor’s office.
Slip-Up – Highlighting the importance of applying a proper sized condom, a slip-up occurs when a condom breaks or slips off during sex.
Condom-Related Sexual Health Terms
Protection – There’s all types of safety and protection but when it comes to sexual terms, protection means the condom effectiveness of preventing unwanted pregnancies or STIs.
Latex-Free Condoms – Designed for people with latex allergies, these are condoms made with other materials effective in protection like polyisoprene. Check out Durex® Real Feel®, Natural Latex-Free Condoms* for more info.
Ultra-Thin Condoms – Condoms designed to be thinner than standard, offering a closer feeling and increased sensitivity. See the Durex® Thin & Ultra-Thin* selection for more.
Textured Condoms – Relating to ribbed & dotted condoms that help enhance sensations and are designed for partner sexual pleasure. Look at Durex® Ribbed & Dotted condoms*.
Flavoured Condoms – Did you know condoms can taste good? These types of rubbers are coated with a flavoured lubricant usually intended for oral sex purposes. Get into Durex® Tropical® Condoms* for strawberry, apple, orange, and banana surprises.
After all the condom chatter, consult How To Prepare For Sex Before Getting Down for other great tips.
Ending On Good Terms
In terms of sex glossaries, wasn’t this one pretty smooth and painless? If you didn’t already know, now you’re aware of 15 terms that are guaranteed to help you figure out your future sexual experiences. And, please, share this list with those who may be curious. Knowledge is power, so enjoy a lifetime of powerful sex!
For help with other potential word barriers, take a couple minutes to read Turning Common Words Into Gender Inclusive Language.
*Ensure this product is right for you. Always read and follow the label before use.
