Real Talk
Dictionary

No more awkward Google searches or confusing medical jargon. Get clear, straightforward definitions of sexual and reproductive health terms.

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A-Z of sex word meaning

Sex Dictionary/ Glossary

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Find sexual and reproductive health terms by first letter

Definition & Facts

Search over 10,000 words relating to sexual and reproductive health terms

B

Bacteria (noun)

Tiny living organisms. Some good, some bad. Healthy bacteria in the vagina help keep infections...

Barrier method (noun)

A type of contraception that prevents sperm from reaching the egg like condoms or dental...

BDSM (noun)

An umbrella term for Bondage, Discipline, Dominance, Submission, Sadism, and Masochism. They are forms of...

Birth Control (noun)

Any method used to prevent pregnancy. From condoms and pills to IUDs and implants.Real talk:

Bisexual (adjective)

Someone who’s attracted to more than one gender. Attraction can be fluid and personal.Real talk:

Bladder (noun)

The organ that stores urine before it leaves your body.Real talk:

Bleeding (noun)

When blood flows from the vagina during your period or other causes. Sometimes normal, sometimes...

Body autonomy (noun)

The right to make choices about your own body without pressure or judgment.Real talk:

Body Image (noun)

How you see and feel about your body. Influenced by society, culture, and your own...

Bond (verb)

To connect emotionally or physically with someone.Real talk:

Bondage (noun)

A sexual practice involving restraint for pleasure. Always consensual and based on trust.Real talk:

Boundaries (noun)

The personal limits that protect your comfort in relationships or intimacy.Real talk:

Breakthrough Bleeding (noun)

Light bleeding between periods, often caused by birth control or hormonal changes.Real talk:

Breasts (noun)

The soft tissue on the chest that can grow during puberty. They’re sensitive and come...

Broaden (verb)

To expand your understanding or perspective. Broadening (noun) The process of learning beyond what you...

By Choice (phrase)

A term that means your decision, your pace whether it’s about sex, love, or lifestyle.Real...

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Encyclopedia

B

Bacteria (noun)

Tiny living organisms. Some good, some bad. Healthy bacteria in the vagina help keep infections...

Barrier method (noun)

A type of contraception that prevents sperm from reaching the egg like condoms or dental...

BDSM (noun)

An umbrella term for Bondage, Discipline, Dominance, Submission, Sadism, and Masochism. They are forms of...

Birth Control (noun)

Any method used to prevent pregnancy. From condoms and pills to IUDs and implants.Real talk:

Bisexual (adjective)

Someone who’s attracted to more than one gender. Attraction can be fluid and personal.Real talk:

Bladder (noun)

The organ that stores urine before it leaves your body.Real talk:

Bleeding (noun)

When blood flows from the vagina during your period or other causes. Sometimes normal, sometimes...

Body autonomy (noun)

The right to make choices about your own body without pressure or judgment.Real talk:

Body Image (noun)

How you see and feel about your body. Influenced by society, culture, and your own...

Bond (verb)

To connect emotionally or physically with someone.Real talk:

Bondage (noun)

A sexual practice involving restraint for pleasure. Always consensual and based on trust.Real talk:

Boundaries (noun)

The personal limits that protect your comfort in relationships or intimacy.Real talk:

Breakthrough Bleeding (noun)

Light bleeding between periods, often caused by birth control or hormonal changes.Real talk:

Breasts (noun)

The soft tissue on the chest that can grow during puberty. They’re sensitive and come...

Broaden (verb)

To expand your understanding or perspective. Broadening (noun) The process of learning beyond what you...

By Choice (phrase)

A term that means your decision, your pace whether it’s about sex, love, or lifestyle.Real...

Frequently Asked Questions

Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights

  • Where can I access confidential sexual health services?

    Many clinics, hospitals, and NGOs offer confidential services. Look for youth-friendly or community health centers. 

  • What are my rights when accessing sexual and reproductive healthcare?

    You have the right to privacy, confidentiality, non-discrimination, and informed decision-making. 

  • What does sexual consent mean?

    Consent is a clear, enthusiastic, and ongoing agreement to engage in sexual activity. It must be freely given and can be withdrawn at any time. 

  • Can I get pregnant while on my period or using contraception?

    Yes, though the chances are lower. No method is 100% effective except abstinence. 

  • How effective is emergency contraception and when should I use it?

    Most effective within 72 hours of unprotected sex, though some types work up to 5 days after. 

  • What types of contraception are available?

    Options include condoms, birth control pills, IUDs, implants, injections, patches, and emergency contraception. 

  • What are my options if I have an unplanned pregnancy?

    Options include parenting, adoption, or abortion. Access depends on local laws and personal circumstances. 

  • What are the early signs of pregnancy?

    Missed period, nausea, breast tenderness, fatigue, and frequent urination are common early signs. 

  • Are STIs curable?

    Some, like chlamydia and gonorrhea, are curable with antibiotics. Others, like HIV and herpes, are manageable but not curable. 

  • How often should I get tested for STIs?

    At least once a year if sexually active, or more frequently if you have multiple partners or symptoms. 

  • Can I get an STI from oral or anal sex?

    Yes. STIs can be transmitted through all types of sexual contact, including oral and anal sex. 

  • How can I protect myself from STIs?

    Use condoms consistently, get tested regularly, limit sexual partners, and communicate openly with partners. 

  • What is sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR)?

    SRHR refers to the right of all individuals to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive lives, including access to healthcare, education, and freedom from discrimination or coercion. 

  • Why is comprehensive sexuality education important?

    It empowers people with knowledge about their bodies, relationships, consent, and health, helping them make informed and safe choices. 

  • What are the most common STIs and their symptoms?

    Common STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HPV, herpes, HIV, and trichomoniasis. Symptoms vary but may include unusual discharge, sores, itching, or no symptoms at all.