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Sex

"Sex" may include many things, from intimate touching to vaginal or anal intercourse.

These terms are often used:

  • Sexual contact may involve genital touching, skin-to-skin contact, mutual masturbation, mouth-to-genital contact (oral sex), or sexual intercourse.
  • Sexual intercourse can refer to vaginal sex (penetration of the vagina), oral sex (mouth to penis, vagina, or anus), or anal sex (penetration of the anus).

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

NOTICE: This health information was not created by Columbia University Irving Medical Center and may not necessarily reflect specific CUIMC practices. For medical advice to your personal condition, please consult your doctor. Medical advice disclaimer.