Sexual Practices and Techniques
A
Anal Sex
Anal sex refers to sexual activity involving penetration of the anus, typically with a penis, fingers, or sex toys. It can be practiced by people of any gender or sexual orientation as part of their sexual repertoire.
Anal Stretching
Anal stretching refers to the gradual process of expanding the anal opening and surrounding muscles to accommodate larger objects or facilitate more comfortable anal play. This practice is sometimes done in preparation for anal sex or as part of BDSM activities, but it should always be approached with caution, patience, and proper lubrication to avoid injury.
Anilingus
Anilingus, also known as rimming, is the sexual practice of orally stimulating the anus of a partner. It involves using the mouth, lips, and tongue to lick, kiss, or otherwise pleasure the anal area for sexual arousal or gratification.
C
Cervical Stimulation
Cervical stimulation refers to the sexual practice of stimulating the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. This type of stimulation typically occurs during deep penetration and can produce intense sensations that some people find pleasurable. The cervix contains nerve endings that, when stimulated, can contribute to sexual arousal and orgasm for some individuals.
Coitus
Coitus, also known as sexual intercourse or copulation, refers to the act of sexual union between two individuals, typically involving the insertion of an erect penis into a vagina. This intimate physical activity is a fundamental aspect of human sexuality and serves both reproductive and pleasurable purposes. Coitus is often considered the primary means of sexual expression between partners and can be a significant component of emotional bonding.
Cunnilingus
Cunnilingus is a sexual act in which a person uses their mouth, lips and tongue to stimulate their partner's vulva, clitoris, and vaginal opening. It is a form of oral sex typically performed on people with vulvas. Cunnilingus can be highly pleasurable and is a common sexual activity practiced by people of various sexual orientations.
D
Daisy Chain
A daisy chain is a sexual practice involving multiple participants arranged in a circular formation, where each person simultaneously gives and receives oral sex. This arrangement creates a continuous "chain" of sexual stimulation, with each participant performing oral sex on one person while receiving it from another.
Deepthroating
Deepthroating is an advanced oral sex technique where the person performing fellatio takes the entire length of the penis into their mouth and throat. This practice involves suppressing the gag reflex to allow the penis to enter the throat beyond the soft palate. Deepthroating is often considered an intense and intimate act that can provide heightened physical and psychological stimulation for both partners.
Diddling
Diddling is a colloquial term used to describe the act of stimulating the genitals, typically with fingers or hands. It's often used as a euphemism for masturbation or manual sexual stimulation of a partner. The term can apply to stimulation of any genital area, regardless of gender.
Dirty Talk
Dirty talk, also known as erotic talk or sexual communication, refers to the use of sexually explicit language, suggestive phrases, or provocative words during intimate encounters or as a form of foreplay. It involves verbally expressing desires, fantasies, or describing sexual acts to enhance arousal and intimacy between partners.
Dry-humping
Dry-humping, also known as dry sex or outercourse, is a non-penetrative sexual activity where two people rub their bodies against each other, typically with clothes on, to simulate sexual intercourse or create sexual stimulation. It often involves rubbing the genitals against a partner's body, commonly the thigh, hip, or buttocks, to achieve sexual arousal or orgasm.
E
Edging
Edging, also known as orgasm control or peaking, is a sexual practice where an individual or their partner intentionally delays orgasm while maintaining a high level of sexual arousal. The goal is to remain in a heightened state of pleasure for an extended period, often resulting in a more intense orgasm when finally allowed to climax.
Erotic hypnosis
Erotic hypnosis is a consensual practice that combines hypnotic techniques with sexual or sensual suggestions to enhance pleasure, explore fantasies, or modify sexual responses. It involves one person (the hypnotist) guiding another (the subject) into a focused, relaxed state where they may be more receptive to sensual suggestions or commands, though the subject always maintains ultimate control over their actions.
Erotic Touching
Erotic touching refers to the sensual and intimate physical contact between partners with the intention of arousing sexual desire or pleasure. It involves using hands, fingers, or other body parts to caress, stroke, or stimulate various areas of the body, particularly erogenous zones. Erotic touching is often an essential component of foreplay and can be a standalone sexual activity.
F
Face-sitting
Face-sitting is a sexual practice where one partner sits or hovers their genital area over their partner's face, typically for oral stimulation. This position allows the receiving partner to have direct access to the genitals or anus of the sitting partner. Face-sitting can be a part of various sexual activities, including cunnilingus, analingus, or simply as a form of domination or submission in BDSM contexts.
Fellatio
Fellatio is the act of using the mouth, lips, and tongue to stimulate a penis for sexual pleasure. It involves licking, sucking, and other oral movements on the penis and surrounding areas. Fellatio is a common sexual practice enjoyed by people of various sexual orientations.
Fetish
A fetish is a form of sexual desire in which gratification is linked to an abnormal degree to a particular object, item of clothing, part of the body, or situation. The object of interest is called the fetish and is required for the person to experience sexual arousal, orgasm, or full sexual satisfaction. Fetishes can involve body parts like feet, objects like shoes, fabrics like leather or latex, or specific situations and acts.
Fisting
Fisting refers to the sexual practice of inserting an entire hand (formed into a fist shape) into a partner's vagina or anus. While considered an extreme form of penetrative sex, it requires extensive preparation, communication, trust between partners, and careful attention to safety and hygiene practices.
Flashing
Flashing refers to the act of briefly exposing one's genitals, breasts, or buttocks to others in public or semi-public settings, typically without their consent. It's often done for sexual gratification, shock value, or as a form of exhibitionism. While some may view it as a harmless prank, flashing is generally considered a form of sexual harassment and is illegal in many jurisdictions.
Foreplay
Foreplay refers to any sexual activity that occurs prior to sexual intercourse. It involves a wide range of sensual and erotic behaviors intended to build arousal, desire, and anticipation between partners. Foreplay often includes kissing, caressing, sensual touching, and stimulation of erogenous zones.
Frenching
Frenching, also known as French kissing, is a form of kissing that involves the use of the tongue. It typically involves two people pressing their lips together while also using their tongues to explore each other's mouths. This intimate act often involves licking, sucking, and gentle biting of the lips and tongue, creating a more intense and sensual experience compared to closed-mouth kissing.
Friends with Benefits
"Friends with benefits" (FWB) refers to a relationship dynamic where two individuals who are friends also engage in sexual activities without the commitment, expectations, or emotional involvement typically associated with romantic relationships. This arrangement combines the comfort and trust of friendship with sexual intimacy, but without the intention of developing a more serious romantic partnership.
Frottage
Frottage is a sexual practice that involves rubbing one's genitals against a partner's body or genitals for sexual stimulation and pleasure. It is a form of non-penetrative sex, also known as outercourse. Frottage can be enjoyed by people of all genders and sexual orientations.
K
Kamasutra
The Kamasutra is an ancient Indian Sanskrit text on sexuality, eroticism, and emotional fulfillment in life. Often misunderstood as merely a manual of sex positions, the Kamasutra is actually a comprehensive guide to love, relationships, and living a virtuous life. Written by Vātsyāyana around 400 BCE to 300 CE, it explores various aspects of human sexual behavior and relationships.
Karezza
Karezza is a sexual practice that emphasizes intimacy, sensuality, and emotional connection over physical stimulation and orgasm. Derived from the Italian word "carezza," meaning "caress," this approach involves gentle, prolonged sexual activity without the goal of climaxing. Practitioners of karezza focus on maintaining a state of arousal and connection for extended periods, often incorporating meditation, eye-gazing, and slow, deliberate movements.
Kink
Kink refers to unconventional sexual interests, preferences or practices that deviate from what is considered standard or "vanilla" sexual behavior. Kinks often involve consensual power exchange, role-playing, or the use of certain objects or materials for sexual gratification.
Kissing
Kissing is a physical act of pressing or touching lips against another person's body, most commonly another person's lips or mouth. It's a universal expression of affection, intimacy, and sexual desire in many cultures. Kissing can range from brief, closed-mouth contact to more passionate exchanges involving tongue and oral exploration, known as "French kissing."
Kunyaza
Kunyaza is a traditional sexual practice originating from central Africa, particularly Rwanda and Uganda. The term roughly translates to "to urinate" or "to make squirt" in Kinyarwanda. This technique focuses on stimulating the female genitalia, especially the clitoris and labia, to enhance pleasure and potentially induce female ejaculation.
L
Libertine
A libertine is a person who rejects or disregards traditional sexual mores and constraints, embracing a lifestyle of sexual freedom and pleasure-seeking. Historically, the term has been used to describe individuals who indulge in sexual activities without moral restraint, often challenging societal norms and expectations surrounding sexuality.
Lingam Massage
Lingam massage is a practice rooted in Tantric traditions, focusing on the massage and stimulation of the male genitalia, particularly the penis (referred to as the "lingam" in Sanskrit). This intimate practice is designed to promote relaxation, increase sexual energy, and potentially lead to heightened states of pleasure. Unlike conventional sexual activities, lingam massage emphasizes mindfulness, breath work, and the exploration of various sensations without necessarily aiming for orgasm.
Lovemaking
Lovemaking is a term used to describe sexual activity between partners that emphasizes emotional intimacy, affection, and connection. It often involves a combination of physical and emotional elements, including kissing, caressing, foreplay, and sexual intercourse. Lovemaking typically implies a deeper emotional bond between partners compared to casual sexual encounters.
M
Masturbation
Masturbation is the act of stimulating one's own genitals or erogenous zones for sexual pleasure, often to the point of orgasm. It is a common and healthy sexual practice that can be enjoyed by people of all genders and ages. Masturbation can involve manual stimulation, the use of sex toys, or other techniques to achieve sexual satisfaction.
Ménage à trois
A ménage à trois, French for "household of three," refers to a sexual arrangement or encounter involving three people. This can be a one-time sexual experience or an ongoing romantic relationship involving three individuals. The term is often used interchangeably with "threesome," although ménage à trois can imply a more ongoing arrangement.
Missionary Position
The missionary position is a common sex position in which a person with a vagina lies on their back with their legs apart, while a person with a penis lies on top, face to face. The penis-having partner penetrates the vagina-having partner. It is often associated with heterosexual intercourse but can be used by people of any sexual orientation with the appropriate anatomy.
Mutual Masturbation
Mutual masturbation is a sexual activity in which two or more partners stimulate themselves or each other's genitals manually, typically to the point of orgasm. This practice can involve partners touching themselves while in the presence of each other, or directly stimulating their partner's genitals with their hands. Mutual masturbation is a form of non-penetrative sex that can be both physically pleasurable and emotionally intimate.
O
Orgasm
An orgasm is the intense, pleasurable release of accumulated sexual tension at the peak of sexual arousal, characterized by involuntary muscle contractions in the genitals and other parts of the body. It is the climax of the sexual response cycle. Orgasms are often accompanied by feelings of euphoria, altered states of consciousness, and a release of endorphins.
Outercourse
Outercourse refers to sexual activities that don't involve penetration of the vagina or anus. It encompasses a wide range of intimate acts that can be both pleasurable and satisfying without the risks associated with penetrative sex. Outercourse can include kissing, touching, rubbing, and mutual masturbation, among other activities.
P
Pegging
Pegging is a sexual practice in which a person uses a strap-on dildo to anally penetrate their partner. The term often refers to a cisgender woman anally penetrating her cis male partner, though any person can be the giver or receiver in this act. Pegging allows the receiving partner to experience prostate stimulation and can be an exciting way to explore role reversal and power dynamics in the bedroom.
Plow
"Plow" is a colloquial term used to describe vigorous sexual intercourse, typically referring to penetrative sex. The term is derived from the agricultural tool used to turn over soil, implying a forceful and repetitive motion. In sexual contexts, "plowing" often suggests deep, powerful thrusting during penetration.
Pompoir
Pompoir, also known as "kabazza" or "Singapore Kiss," is an advanced sexual technique that involves the deliberate contraction and relaxation of the vaginal and pelvic floor muscles during penetrative sex. This practice is designed to enhance pleasure for both partners by creating a rhythmic, gripping sensation around the penis or other inserted object.
Pound
"Pound" is a colloquial term used to describe vigorous sexual intercourse, typically referring to penetrative sex. It implies a forceful, intense, and rhythmic thrusting motion during sexual activity. The term is often used in casual conversations about sex and is considered informal or slang.
Prostate Milking
Prostate milking, also known as prostate massage, is a sexual practice involving the stimulation of the prostate gland in individuals with prostates, typically men and some transgender individuals. This practice involves applying pressure to the prostate through the rectum or externally via the perineum. The term "milking" refers to the potential release of prostatic fluid, which can occur during stimulation.
Prostate Stimulation
Prostate stimulation refers to the sexual practice of massaging or applying pressure to the prostate gland for pleasure or health purposes. The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located inside the rectum of people with male anatomy, about 2-3 inches in from the anal opening. When stimulated, it can produce intense sensations and potentially lead to orgasm.
R
Refractory Period
The refractory period refers to the time immediately following orgasm during which a person is physiologically unable to have another orgasm or, in the case of people with penises, achieve another erection. This period is characterized by a temporary decrease in sexual responsiveness and a need for recovery before engaging in further sexual activity.
Rimming
Rimming, also known as anilingus, is an oral sex act that involves using the mouth, lips, and tongue to stimulate a partner's anus and the surrounding area. It is a form of anal pleasure that many people of all genders and orientations enjoy as part of their sexual repertoire.
S
Sadomasochism
Sadomasochism, often shortened to S&M or SM, refers to the giving and receiving of pleasure from acts involving the infliction or reception of pain or humiliation. A subset of BDSM, it is typically a consensual sexual practice that involves a power exchange between partners.
Scissoring
Scissoring is a sexual practice typically associated with lesbian or female same-sex encounters, where two partners interlock their legs and rub their genitals together for mutual stimulation. This activity can involve various positions and movements, with the goal of achieving sexual pleasure through genital-to-genital contact.
Sensate Focus
Sensate focus is a therapeutic technique used in sex therapy to help individuals or couples enhance intimacy, overcome sexual difficulties, and improve overall sexual experiences. Developed by Masters and Johnson in the 1960s, this practice involves a series of structured touching exercises that emphasize sensual awareness and pleasure without the pressure of sexual performance.
Sexting
Sexting is the act of sending sexually explicit messages, photos, or videos via digital devices, typically smartphones. It's a form of sexual expression and intimate communication that has become increasingly common with the widespread use of mobile technology and dating apps.
Snowballing
Snowballing is a sexual practice that involves passing semen from one person's mouth to another's after oral sex. Typically, it occurs when one partner performs oral sex on a person with a penis, receives ejaculate in their mouth, and then kisses their partner, transferring some or all of the semen in the process. The term "snowballing" is derived from the way the amount of fluid can increase as it's passed back and forth, similar to a snowball growing as it rolls.
Sounding
Sounding is a sexual practice that involves the insertion of specially designed objects, called sounds, into the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body). This activity is typically performed for sexual pleasure and stimulation. Sounds are usually smooth, long, and thin instruments made of surgical steel, silicone, or other body-safe materials.
Squirting
Squirting refers to the expulsion of fluid from the urethra during sexual arousal or orgasm in some women. While often confused with female ejaculation, squirting typically involves a larger volume of clear, diluted urine, whereas female ejaculation produces a smaller amount of milky fluid from the Skene's glands.
Sumata
Sumata, also known as "Japanese thigh sex," is a non-penetrative sexual practice that originated in Japan. It involves stimulating the penis by rubbing it between the partner's thighs, often with the addition of lubricant. This practice is considered a form of outercourse and is sometimes used as an alternative to penetrative sex.
Swingers
Swingers are individuals who engage in sexual activities with other people besides their primary romantic partners, typically in a recreational or social context. Swinging, also known as partner-swapping or wife-swapping, involves consensual exchange of partners within a couple or among a group of people for sexual purposes.
Swinging
Swinging is a non-monogamous practice where committed couples consensually engage in sexual activities with other couples or individuals. Also known as "partner swapping" or "the lifestyle," swinging typically involves married or long-term partners who agree to have sexual experiences outside their primary relationship, often together or with each other's knowledge and approval.
T
Tantra
Tantra is an ancient spiritual practice originating in India that encompasses various traditions and techniques aimed at harnessing sexual energy for personal and spiritual growth. In the context of sexuality, tantra involves mindful, slow, and intentional sexual practices that emphasize the connection between partners, breath work, and energy flow. It's often described as a way to achieve higher states of consciousness through sexual union.
Tantric Sex
Tantric sex is an ancient Eastern practice that combines sexuality with spirituality. It emphasizes slow, mindful, and intimate lovemaking as a pathway to heightened awareness, spiritual growth, and deeper connection between partners. Unlike conventional sex, the goal of tantric sex is not necessarily orgasm, but rather the experience of sexual energy throughout the body.
Taoist Bedroom Arts
Taoist Bedroom Arts, also known as "the Arts of the Bedchamber" in Chinese tradition, refer to a set of ancient sexual practices and philosophies rooted in Taoist beliefs. These practices aim to cultivate sexual energy, enhance intimacy, and promote physical and spiritual well-being. The core principle involves the circulation and preservation of vital life force, or "qi," through various sexual techniques and exercises.
Taoist Sexual Practices
Taoist sexual practices are ancient Chinese techniques that view sexual activity as a way to cultivate spiritual growth, physical health, and longevity. These practices emphasize the circulation and balance of sexual energy, known as "jing," within the body. Taoist sexuality often involves specific breathing exercises, meditation, and physical techniques designed to enhance sexual pleasure while preserving vital energy.
Taoist Sexual Yoga
Taoist Sexual Yoga is an ancient Chinese practice that combines principles of Taoism with sexual techniques and yogic practices. It aims to cultivate and circulate sexual energy (also known as "chi" or "qi") throughout the body for physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits. This practice views sexual energy as a powerful force that, when properly harnessed, can lead to improved health, longevity, and spiritual enlightenment.
Teabagging
Teabagging is a slang term for a sexual act in which a person lowers their testicles into the mouth of a partner or onto their face, typically in a repeated up and down motion. The term is derived from the act's resemblance to dipping a tea bag into a cup of hot water. While often associated with oral sex, teabagging itself is not necessarily a form of stimulation for the receiver but can be arousing for the giver.
Throat Numbing Spray
Throat numbing spray is a topical anesthetic product designed to temporarily reduce the gag reflex and desensitize the throat. It's primarily used to facilitate deep throat oral sex or to help individuals who have difficulty swallowing pills. These sprays typically contain lidocaine or benzocaine as the active ingredient, which provides a numbing effect to the applied area.
Top-Bottom
"Top-bottom" refers to the roles taken by partners during sexual activity, particularly in same-sex relationships, though it can apply to any sexual pairing. A "top" is typically the partner who penetrates or takes a more dominant role, while a "bottom" is the partner who receives penetration or takes a more submissive role. These terms are most commonly used in gay male culture but have expanded to other LGBTQ+ communities and some heterosexual contexts.
Tribadism
Tribadism, also known as tribbing, is a sexual practice primarily associated with lesbian and bisexual women. It involves genital-to-genital contact, typically with one partner rubbing their vulva against their partner's vulva, thigh, or other body parts for sexual stimulation. The term comes from the Greek word "tribein," meaning "to rub."
V
Vasocongestion
Vasocongestion is the swelling of bodily tissues caused by increased blood flow and fluid retention during sexual arousal. This physiological response occurs in various parts of the body, most notably the genitals, and is a key component of the sexual response cycle. In people with penises, vasocongestion causes erections, while in people with vulvas, it leads to the swelling of the clitoris and labia, as well as vaginal lubrication.
Voyeurism
Voyeurism refers to the practice of deriving sexual pleasure and arousal from observing others when they are naked, undressing, or engaged in sexual activity. Voyeurs are usually not directly involved with the subject of their interest, and often observe from a concealed location or through video recording. Voyeurism becomes a paraphilic disorder when it causes distress, impairment, or harm to oneself or others.