An abortion is the medical process of ending a pregnancy, it is also sometimes known as a termination. Abortion is available in the UK up to 24th week of a pregnancy and is available to any woman regardless of age. 1 in 3 women in the UK will have an abortion by the time they are 45.

The age between puberty and adulthood.

When a husband or wife has sex with someone outside of their marriage.

Assigned female at birth/Female assigned at birth.

The age that the law states it is legal for you to have sex. In the UK the legal age in 16, in Northern Ireland it is 17.

AIDS is a serious condition where the body’s defences against certain illnesses stop working. The virus that causes AIDS is HIV, which can be sexually transmitted. You can protect yourself from HIV by using a condom every time you have sex. You could also use PrEP (PrEPARED in Wales | Wales PrEP Project (shwales.online)). People who are HIV positive do not necessarily have AIDS. For more information click here or visit the NHS website https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hiv-and-aids/ For those who think they may have been exposed to HIV in the last 72 hours, there is a medication available that can prevent HIV transmission after the risk has occurred, see section on “PEPSE”.

Assigned male at birth/Male assigned at birth.

Involves the stimulation of the anus when a person’s penis (finger, or sex toy) penetrates their partner’s rectum. People, regardless of their gender can choose to have anal sex, other people choose not to – the choice is completely yours. Receiving anal sex can have a greater risk of catching an infection than other types of sex because the lining of the rectum absorbs infection easily. Always use a condom. Using lube reduces the chance of tearing the rectum lining. You can get free condoms here.

The term to describe a person whose gender expression and/or identity may not be “female” or “male” and is usually based on appearance.

Medicine designed to kill harmful bacteria.

Proteins produced by your body that fight off bacteria and viruses.

Also known as the bum, butt, arse, or bottom. The anus is the hole at the end of the digestive system where solid waste (poo/shit) leaves the body.

Someone who is asexual does not experience sexual attraction to anyone.

A very common infection of the vagina that can cause a change to your normal discharge. The discharge may be smelly, (often described as fishy) it can change consistency (become runnier) or change colour.

Another word for testicles.

Another way of saying contraception. For more information about contraception click here.

Someone who is attracted to both men and women.

A few drops of blood are taken and will be sent to a laboratory to be tested. To order a self-testing blood kit that tests for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C, straight to your home click here.

When someone puts a penis into their mouth to give pleasure. Also known as ‘oral sex’.

Also known as boobs or tits. The main purpose of the breasts is to give milk to babies. They develop, and/or grow during puberty.

A rubber contraceptive method that sits at the neck of the womb to block sperm from reaching a woman’s eggs. Also known as a ‘Diaphragm’.

Cancer of the cervix can be a life-threatening disease, but it can be treated and cured if it is found in its early stages. Cervical cancer is most common in women over 50 but can affect females of all ages.

A cervical screening (also known as a ‘Smear test’) is a test to prevent cancer by checking the health of a woman’s cervix. A speculum (a small metal or plastic tool) in put inside the vagina to take cells from the cervix. The test is not painful but might be a little bit uncomfortable. Women should have the test every 3 to 5 years between the ages of 25 to 64 and will be invited by a letter from the NHS.

The neck of the womb. It consists of a narrow passages leading to the vagina.

Some people are using drugs before/during sex (‘chemsex’) to enhance sexual intensity and boost confidence during sex. People engaging in chemsex are at a high risk for STI’s. For more information click here.

A very common sexually transmitted infection (STI) which, if untreated, can cause infertility in girls/women. For more information click here.

Circumcision is when the foreskin on a penis is removed by a doctor during surgery. The operation can be done on babies for religious reasons, but is can happen at any time during a boy’s life if there is a problem with their foreskin. It is a completely safe operation and makes no difference to the person’s sex life.

A word to describe a person whose gender identity is the same as the sex they were assigned at birth. The term non-trans is also used but cis-gender is a more inclusive term.

The organ at the front of a vulva which produces intense feelings of sexual pleasure when stimulated.

The coil is a contraceptive device made of plastic or copper, also known as ‘IUD’ or ‘Long Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC)’. It is inserted into the womb/uterus and can protect against pregnancy for 5-10 years depending on the type you have. For more information click here.

A painful or irritating sore that looks scabby or crusty, usually found near the mouth or nose, caused by the Herpes virus. Cold sores are contagious from when someone first feels a tingling sensation until the sore has completely healed. You should NOT kiss anyone whilst you have a cold sore, especially children and babies. You should NOT have oral sex until your cold sore is completely gone or you might give your partner genital herpes. For more information on cold sores click here.

The combined pill or “the pill” is a contraceptive pill that prevents pregnancy. This pill contains synthetic versions of the hormones Oestrogen and Progesterone. When taken correctly, this type of pill is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. For more information click here.

A slang term for orgasm or semen.

When a person makes it public that they are gay (or part of the LGBTQ+ community).

A thin, rubber cover worn over the penis. A form of contraception that protects against unplanned pregnancy. Condoms are the ONLY method of contraception that protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). You can get free condoms here.

If something is confidential then it is secret. Even if you are under 16 you have the same confidentiality rights as an adult. This means that doctors and nurses should not pass on any information about your visit(s). They may need to share information if they think you are in serious danger but they should always discuss the issue with you first.

Consent means permission. Consent should always be given before any sexual encounter. For more information about sexual consent click here.

This is the word for any method used to prevent pregnancy. For more information on the different types of contraception click here.

Lice that live in the pubic hair and can be spread from one person to another during sex or close contact.

When a person uses their mouth to stimulate a woman’s genitals. Oral sex performed on a vulva.

Talking about sex with someone on the internet, in a chat room, social media, text, or by email. For information on online safety click here.

When a person goes on a date and then forces their date to have sex with them against their will.

A small sheet of latex which acts as a barrier between the vagina or anus and mouth during oral sex. Click here for how to create a dental dam from a condom.

An artificial penis made from rubber or plastic that people use to give themselves, or their sexual partner, sexual pleasure.

Liquid that comes out of a penis or a vagina. For people with vaginas, discharge from the vagina is normal and will happen from puberty through to menopause. It is produced by small glands in the vagina and the cervix. It will change during the month and can make sex more pleasurable. If the discharge is an unusual colour or smells unpleasant you should visit your GP or local sexual health clinic in case of an infection. For people with a penis, discharge from the penis is not normal and quite likely indicates a sexually transmitted infection (STI). The quicker it is checked the better. To find your local clinic click here.

When an egg is fertilised outside of the womb, like in the fallopian tubes. Pregnancy is not safe outside of the womb, so an ectopic pregnancy usually has to be terminated.

Male: when a man reaches climax his penis produces semen containing sperm, also known as ‘coming’. Sperm can also be present in pre-ejaculate or pre-cum, when the penis is aroused. Female: some women may ejaculate when having a vagina orgasm. A clear fluid spurts from glands near the urethra during intense sexual excitement or during orgasm. This has become known as ‘squirting’ though this usually refers to a larger amount of fluid released. Only 6% of women can squirt on a regular basis.

An embryo is the name given to the products of a pregnancy at weeks 4-5 and is then called a foetus after week 8. To learn more details on the development of an embryo throughout pregnancy see here.

The emergency pill is a type of contraception that can prevent pregnancy in most cases if used within 5 days (120 hours) of having unprotected sex. The emergency pill is free. For more information on emergency contraception click here.

A disease where the tissue that normally lines the womb/uterus grows on other organs outside of it. It can cause pain and fertility problems. For more information about endometriosis click here.

When sexual arousal causes a penis to swell and become hard or erect.

The network of clinics where you can go for free and confidential advice about sex and contraception. To find your local clinic click here.

Also known as a ‘blow job’. When someone takes their partner’s penis in their mouth to sexually stimulate them.

If sperm gets into the vagina it can travel up the cervix to an egg. If the egg is fertilised by a sperm an embryo can start to grow – if this happens the woman becomes pregnant.

If a person has a healthy reproductive system and they are able to get pregnant or produce sperm, they are fertile.

If a person is not able to get pregnant, or produce healthy sperm, they may have a fertility problem. There are different types of fertility problems but many can be treated by doctors. Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can lead to fertility problems if they are left untreated.

When a person uses their fingers to stimulate genitalia.

Fun condoms that taste of fruit, chocolate, or mint. Condoms can also be ribbed, or different colours.

The medical name for a baby in the womb between the 8th week of pregnancy and the birth.

Any kind of sexual activity that leads up to but does not include sexual intercourse.

The fold of skin that covers the end of a penis.

Kissing that involves putting your tongue in each other’s mouths.

A word for someone who cannot get sexually aroused.

A vulgar word for having sex.

An area in a vagina that is claimed to caused heightened sexual pleasure.

Another word for ‘homosexual’. Someone who is sexually attracted to a person of the same sex.

A term used to describe when a person has discomfort or distress because their sex assigned at birth doesn’t match their gender identity. It is also the clinical diagnosis for someone who does not feel comfortable with the gender they were assigned at birth.

A person’s internal sense of their gender. This could be male, female, or something else (such as non-binary).

Describes facilities that any person can use regardless of their gender (e.g., gender neutral toilets). The term can also be used to describe a person who does not conform to any socially constructed gender.

The ways that people are expected to behave in society according to their gender, or what is commonly accepted as “normal” for a person of that gender.

Small growths on or around the genitals caused by a virus. You should not have unprotected sex if you have genital warts. For more information on genital warts click here.

The external reproductive organs in both men and women.

A sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can be easily treated with antibiotics but can be serious if left untreated. For more information about gonorrhoea click here.

An NHS run clinic that can help you with all things sexual health. Treatment is free and confidential. To find your local clinic click here.

When a person stimulates a penis using their hand.

Another word for an erection.

An infection that affects the liver that is spread through the poo of an infected person. It is not common in the UK but certain groups of people are at a greater risk, and may be offered vaccination. For more information about the infection click here.

An infection which affects the liver which is spread through the contamination blood and bodily fluids of a person with the infection. Certain groups of people may be at an increased risk of Hepatitis B and are eligible for vaccination. For more information on this infection click here. To order a self-testing blood kit that tests for HIV, syphilis, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C, straight to your home click here.

An infection that affects the liver which is spread through the contaminated blood of an infected person. Can be transmitted through many different ways including unprotected sex, sharing of drug taking equipment, sharing of toothbrushes and razors etc. Hepatitis C is a curable condition, that can lead to serious complication if left untreated. There is currently no vaccination available against Hepatitis C but there are many treatments available, and the treatments have minimal to no side effects now. To find out more about Hepatitis C click here. To order a self-testing blood kit that tests for HIV, syphilis, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C, straight to your home click here.

A virus that can lead to sores on the face or genitals. It is passed on through sexual activities, or close contact. There is no known cure for Herpes and you will always carry the virus, but it can be treated. For more information click here.

A person who is attracted to people of the opposite sex.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus. HIV can be sexually transmitted and is a virus that damages the immune system. People diagnosed with HIV can expect to live healthy lives with a comparable life span to people without HIV, they are also less likely to pass on the virus to future partners. People who are undiagnosed are at a high risk of passing the virus on to others, and they may become physically unwell with the virus. If left untreated the HIV virus can lead to a condition known as AIDs. Testing regularly to ensure early diagnosis of this virus helps to protect yourself and others from harm. There are different types of protection from HIV: wearing a condom, PrEP, and getting tested regularly. For more information about HIV click here.
If you think you could have been exposed to HIV within the last 72 hours there is a Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEPSE) available to you from your local sexual Health Clinic or A&E. This is oral medication you can take to reduce your chances of catching HIV after a potential exposure. If you are concerned, or think you could need this medication don’t hesitate to speak to a healthcare professional. The sooner you start this medication after a potential exposure, the more likely the medication is to be effective.
To order a self-testing blood kit that tests for HIV, syphilis, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C, straight to your home click here.

The unnecessary hatred of homosexuals.

A person who is attracted to people of their own sex.

Naturally occurring chemicals that guide the changes that take place in the body. Hormones cause puberty to start and can cause physical and emotional changes.

Feeling in the mood for sex.

Human Papilloma Virus. There are many strains of HPV and most are benign but they can cause fleshy growths (warts) to form on various parts of the body. This includes genital warts or even warts of the hands and feet are also caused by types of HPV. There are some types of HPV that can lead to cell changes in the cervix. Women will be offered a HPV test as part of their cervical screening programme. Other than this, there is no test for HPV carried out routinely, and people are diagnosed as having this virus based on the presence of symptoms. Meaning, if you have a wart, a healthcare professional will be able to diagnose this and recommend the best treatment for you. A HPV vaccine is available through the NHS in school to prevent cervical and other cancers. If you have not received this vaccine through school, you could be eligible to receive this at your local sexual health clinic. Men who have sex with men should be offered this vaccine during sexual health screening. If you have tested via our website, you can still contact your local sexual health service to access this vaccination. For more information click here.

The thin layer of skin that partially covers the entrance to a woman’s vagina. It can be broken by sex, tampon use, or certain sports activities.

When a man cannot get an erection.

When people who are related (i.e., brothers and sisters) have sex with each other. Incest is illegal in the UK and is a form of child abuse. Visit The Survivors Trust to seek support if affected.

Illness caused by a germ/bacteria or a virus.

Someone who is unable to reproduce and have biological children of their own.

A rubber sheath that lines a vagina to prevent pregnancy or anus to prevent STI’s. Internal condoms can be inserted between 20 minutes and 6 hours before you have sex. Internal condoms should not be reused. For more information click here.

Intersex is a term used for a range of situations where a person is born with a reproductive system or sexual anatomy that doesn’t fit ‘male’ or ‘female’. Intersex babies and children can have surgery to fit with binary ideas of ‘male’ and ‘female’.

Irregular periods are periods that change each month and do not happen every 28 days. Periods are controlled by hormones and irregular ones are usually part of the normal change that happens to teenagers. Different types of contraception can also causes irregularities to a person’s periods.

The Intrauterine Device (IUD) is another name for the coil contraceptive. The IUD is made of plastic or copper. It is inserted into the uterus and prevents pregnancy. The IUD lasts up to 5 years and is 99% effective at stopping pregnancy. For more information on the IUD click here.

The Intrauterine System (IUS) is a small, plastic T-shaped device containing hormone. It is placed in the womb and works for 5 years. The IUS is more than 99% effective at stopping pregnancy. For more information on the IUS click here.

Another word for a ‘condom’.

When two people put their mouths together for pleasure.

The flaps of skin on either side of a woman’s vagina.

A woman who is attracted to other women.

A name for emergency contraceptive more commonly known as the morning after pill or emergency pill.

The acronym for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning +.

Another word for a person’s sex-drive.

When a person uses their mouth to stimulate a vulva and vagina – see “cunnilingus”

When a person sucks or gently bites the skin of another person and leaves a red/purple mark.

A liquid you can use to make sex easier and more fun. Certain lubes can damage the effectiveness of condoms so make sure to use a water-based lubricant with condoms and always read the instructions.

Touching or stimulating your own or someone else’s genitals for sexual pleasure. Masturbation is natural and a very normal way to explore your own body. Also known as ‘wanking’.

The medical word for period or “time of the month”. When the uterus sheds the lining. This typically occurs once a month but can be at irregular intervals for some people due to medication/contraception and their normal body rhythm. If you have irregular periods and are unsure of the cause, speak to your GP.

The time when menstruation stops (typically between the ages of 45 and 50).

Also known as the progestogen-only pill. It prevents pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation and follicular development and changes the nature of the cervical mucus to prevent a sperm from being able to enter the uterus. This type of pill must be taken every day to be effective. For more information click here.

When a foetus (unborn baby) comes out of the womb before it is old enough to survive outside its mother’s body. Also called ‘losing a baby’.

Another term for emergency contraception. Taken within 5 days (or 120 hours) after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. For more information click here.

The raised bits of skin on the centre of each breast. Nipples are usually harder and darker in colour that the rest of the breast/chest.

An umbrella term for people whose gender identity does not align comfortably with ‘man’ or ‘woman’. Non-binary identities are varied and can include people who identify with some aspects of binary identities, while others reject them completely.

One female hormone that controls reproduction.

When you have sex with a person but do not develop a relationship with them.

Using the mouth and tongue to pleasure and stimulate a person’s genitals. There are contraceptives available to avoid catching sexually transmitted infections (STIs) through oral sex, including condoms, and dental dams.

The peak of sexual pleasure. Orgasms are different for everyone and not everyone has an orgasm each time they have sex.

Ovaries are the female reproductive glands. They hold and develop eggs and make the hormones oestrogen and progesterone.

When the ovaries are releasing an egg ready for fertilisation. This usually happens halfway through a menstrual cycle. For example, if a woman has a 28-day period cycle, ovulation will happen around day 14 of their cycle.

When an adult has unlawful sex with a child under 16.

Emotional, romantic and/or sexual orientation towards more than one gender. Attracted to a person regardless of their biological sex, gender, or gender identity.

When a vagina, or anus, is penetrated by a penis, or sex toy.

The male sexual organ.

When a girl reaches puberty they have a menstrual bleed (a period) every month. The bleeding happens when their egg is not fertilised and exits the vagina with the lining of the womb. The blood can be thick and might be bright red or brown in colour.

A person who works in a chemist and is qualified to prepare medicines and give some medical advice.

Premenstrual Syndrome/Premenstrual Tension. Both are terms to describe the mood changes caused by hormonal changes in the days leading up to a period.

Films, videos, books, or pictures that are intended to make a person sexually aroused. For more information on pornography click here.

The time between conception and birth. Pregnancy refers to the time when an egg become fertilised and implants then becomes an embryo, which can develop into a foetus and can result in a live birth of a baby or could result in the termination of this process before this point via termination of pregnancy or miscarriage.

A test shows whether or not you are pregnant. These tests can be bought from a chemist or a supermarket. You can also access these tests for free by attending your local sexual health clinic or seeing your GP. The box usually contains a stick that you urinate (pee) on. The test detects a hormone called Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) that is only in your system if you are pregnant. Make sure you read the instructions carefully.

When a boy/man ejaculates (cums) too soon or before he wants to. Many things can cause this to happen, including overexcitement, performance anxiety, inexperience etc.

Pre-exposure prophylaxis. PrEP is a drug available on the NHS for people who are at a higher risk of getting HIV. When taken correctly, PrEP reduces the chances of getting HIV to zero. However, taking PrEP does not prevent catching other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) so you should still use condoms. For more information on PrEP click here. You can get free condoms here.

PEPSE or “PEP” stands for Post exposure prophylaxis and is available on the NHS to people who believe they have been exposed to HIV. It is available to anyone who thinks they may have had an exposure to HIV within the last 72 hours. You can obtain PEPSE by attending your local sexual health clinic or by going to A&E at any time of day or night. This is an oral medication that you take for 28 days and can prevent you from contracting HIV even after you have had the exposure. If you are unsure, speak to a healthcare professional, they will carry out an assessment with you to decide what the best treatment options for you are. Never be afraid to ask about PEPSE from a healthcare professional, even if after the assessment you do not need the medication, it is better to be sure.

These are the words we use to describe a person’s gender, like ‘he/him’, ‘she/her’. Some people prefer others to refer to them in gender-neutral language and use pronouns like ‘they/their/them’ or ‘ze/zir’.

An old-fashioned word for a condom.

A walnut-sized gland just below a man’s bladder. It provides the fluid needed to nourish and transport sperm.

The time when people’s bodies start to change and become sexually mature. Puberty usually starts between the ages 9-13 but some people are much younger or older. Puberty takes a long time and affects people emotionally as well as physically. Puberty is triggered by certain hormones, or chemicals, inside our bodies.

The hair that starts to grow around the genitals during puberty.

Lice that live in pubic hair. They are usually passed on by sexual contact.

Another word for ‘homosexual’ or a member of the LGBTQIA+ community.

The process of exploring your own sexual orientation and/or gender identity.

When a person is forced to have sex against their will and without giving consent it is called rape. Rape is illegal and taken very seriously by the police.

When a person uses their mouth and tongue to stimulate/pleasure another person’s anus. Sometimes it can lead to serious gut infections and you can also catch Hepatitis from rimming. You can prevent transmission of STI’s or other infections from this by using a condom as a dental dam. See section on how to turn a condom into a dental dam.

Cotton pads that fit into girl’s/women’s underwear when they are having a period. The towels soak up blood, but need to be changed every few hours.

The bag of skin that holds the testicles.

The fluid that contains sperms cells. Semen comes out of the penis during ejaculation.

The belief that one sex or gender is superior to another. Or, actions and attitudes that stereotype, prejudice, or discriminate against people based solely on their perceived sex or gender.

Also known as getting turned on or being horny. Something happens to make you feel in the mood for sex, you could be alone or with a partner when this occurs.

Another term for ‘puberty’. The time when your body developed sexually.

All the people you have had a sexual relationship with during your life.

Sexual contact between individuals involving penetration.

A person’s emotional, romantic and/or sexual attraction to another person.

Infections that are passed on during sexual activity. There are different STIs, some of which are common and very treatable, others more serious. The only way to protect against STIs is by using condoms. For more information on the different STIs, click here. You can get free condoms here.

Another word for having sex.

Another word for a condom.

A smear test (or Cervical Screening) is a test to detect early changes in the health of your cervix. A speculum (a small metal or plastic tool) is put inside the vagina to take cells from the cervix. The test is not painful but might be a little bit uncomfortable. Women should have the test every 5 years between the ages of 25 to 64 and will be invited by a letter from the NHS.

The cheesy white substance produced by the gland under a foreskin.

The reproductive cells produced in the testicles.

See ‘ejaculate’ (for women).

When someone has an operation to prevent them getting pregnant or getting their partner pregnant. For more information click here.

See ‘Sexually Transmitted Infection’

Another word for ‘heterosexual’.

A small piece of material or cotton used to take a sample of body fluid.

A sexually transmitted infection (STI), which often goes unnoticed and can spread without either partner knowing. It is passed on during sex or sexual activity and can be serious is left untreated. To order a self-testing blood kit that tests for HIV, syphilis, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C, straight to your home click here.

Cotton tubes that a woman puts inside her vagina during a period to absorb menstrual blood. Tampons should be changed regularly to avoid chances of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). For more information of TSS click here.

Another term for abortion. See “abortion”.

The two balls under a penis where sperm is produced.

A male hormone produced in the testicles.

The common name for the contraceptive pill. The pill can be taken every day to stop women from getting pregnant. For more information about the pill click here.

A genital infection caused by a fungus. Anyone can get thrush but it is more common for women. It causes soreness and itching but is treatable. See “Yeast Infection”.

TSS is rare but very serious. It can be associated with tampon and/or diaphragm use. TSS causes a high fever, faintness and muscle problems. For more information click here.

Used to describe someone who was assigned female at birth but identifies as a boy/man.

Used to describe someone who was assigned male at birth but identifies as a girl/woman.

An umbrella term to describe people whose gender is not the same as the sex they were assigned at birth. Trans people may describe themselves using one or more of a variety of terms, including (but not limited to) transgender, non-binary, gender fluid, gender queer. Not every trans person chooses to transition.

The period of time when a trans person begins to live in the gender role that matches their gender identity.

The fear or dislike of someone who identifies as trans or the mistreatment of that person because of their trans identity.

An out dated, and more medical, term to refer to someone who transitioned to live in the ‘opposite’ gender to the one assigned at birth. The term is still used by some although many people prefer the term Trans or Transgender.

Refers to ‘scissoring’ which is when two women rub their vulvas and clitoris together as a form of non-penetrative sex to stimulate each other at the same time.

A sexually transmitted infection (STI), also known as T.V. It can cause green, frothy discharge in women and green or yellow discharge, similar to gonorrhoea, in men. It is easily treated.

Undetectable = Untransmittable. Someone who is diagnosed with HIV will be put on medication and within a year after treatment could become undetectable. This means that someone who is undetectable CANNOT pass on HIV.

When a penis is in its natural state: soft, and unaroused.

A pregnancy that is not planned and is upsetting to the person who has become pregnant. For more information click here.

Having sex without using any condoms or contraception which may lead to pregnancy or catching a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

The medical term for the tube that your urine (pee) comes out of.

Also known as ‘wee’ or ‘pee’. It is produced in the kidneys and is made up of excess water and toxic waste from food.

When you pee in a bottle and give it to a healthcare professional to examine for infection. This is used for testing males for chlamydia, a swab is used for chlamydia testing in females. To order a home-testing kit that tests for chlamydia click here.

The passage that runs from a woman’s genitals up to her womb.

A battery-operated sex toy that can enhance sexual experience.

A person who has never had sex.

Another word for external female genitals.

Another word for masturbating.

Small growths found on the genitals caused by HPV. See “Genital Warts”. Warts can also be found on other parts of the body such as the hands or feet.

When a person ejaculates whilst they are asleep and is a natural part of sexual development.

When you take the penis out of a vagina before ejaculation. This is not a method of contraception and is very unreliable in preventing pregnancy and STIs. For more information on effective contraception methods click here.

Also known as the ‘uterus’. The womb is an organ in the woman’s body where a baby can grow inside.

A term used about videos/films where the content is suitable for adults (over 18) only because it contains explicit content or is very violent.

Also known as ‘thrush’. A yeast infection is a fungal infection that affects all genders. It can cause irritation, discharge and itchiness of the vagina, vulva, head of the penis and/or under the foreskin. It is not serious but can be uncomfortable so you should get medication to get rid of it. It is not an STI but can be triggered by sex and passed on by sex. To ease discomfort and prevent thrush returning:

• Use water and emollient (e.g., E45 cream or aqueous cream) instead of soap to wash the affected area
• Dry properly after washing
• Take showers instead of baths
• Avoid sex until thrush has cleared. If you do have sex use a condom to prevent it spreading (but, antifungal cream can break condoms so you should avoid sex whilst using the cream).