Search Results for: vagina

• What’s “normal” when it comes to vaginal discharge?

  All people with a vagina have vaginal discharge (fluid or semi-solid substance that flows out of the vaginal opening). It’s a way the body maintains a healthy vagina. In fact,... Read more

• Vaginal Intercourse

  Sex in which a penis or sex toy enters the vagina.... Read more

• Vagina

  The passageway between the cervix and the vulva. It has many functions: it allows menstrual blood, vaginal fluid, and a fetus or baby to leave the body; it is the... Read more

• Vaginal pain during sex

  Vaginal pain during sex is more common than you might think. Here, we discuss the different causes of vaginal pain during sex, how you can address it with your partner,... Read more

• Vaginal Discharge

  What’s normal and not normal? All women have some vaginal discharge (fluid or semisolid substance that flows out of the vaginal opening). It’s a way the body maintains a healthy... Read more

• Vagina 101

  There’s a lot of confusion about what the vagina ‘should’ look, feel or smell like. So, here are some simple facts (vagina 101) to clear the rumours. The vagina is... Read more

• Find the right STI testing service for you

  What is STI testing? STI testing is the process of running medical tests to check for any sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is quick, easy, and confidential. Most STI tests... Read more

• National Condom Day

  It’s Valentine’s Day National Condom Day!  It’s no coincidence that Valentine’s Day and National Condom Day fall on the same day… but in terms of which one we’re celebrating, well,... Read more

• What is World AIDS Day

  World AIDS Day Ever wondered why you see red ribbons everywhere in early December? Well, it’s because of World AIDS Day. World AIDS Day takes place on the 1st of... Read more

• What is contraception?

  What is contraception? Contraception, also sometimes referred to as ‘birth control’, is something people can use when they want to have sex that can result in pregnancy, but do not... Read more

• What is a dental dam? How to use them and where to find them

  Exploring the benefits and purpose of a dental dam Dental dams may not be trending across social media but could this lesser-known barrier method be a good option for you?... Read more

• Been diagnosed with an STI? Now what?

  If you’ve been diagnosed with a sexually transmissible infection (STI), you might be feeling a bit overwhelmed, worried or unsure about what’s next. It might seem scary but getting an... Read more

• Why we love lube (and you will too)

  Have you ever been having sex and noticed that things were getting a bit…dry? It happens to the best of us and there’s a super easy solution. ENTER: lube. Honestly,... Read more

• Talking to your doctor about sexual health

  Does the thought of talking to your doctor about sexual health give you butterflies or send a shiver down your spine? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. It can be a... Read more

• Can I get an STI from oral sex?

  While you can’t get pregnant from oral sex, it doesn’t mean that oral sex is a no-risk situation. Oral sex (using your mouth to pleasure someone’s penis, vagina, or anus)... Read more

• Safe sex between women

  Women who have sex with women are wonderfully diverse. And sex between women is just as diverse. The risk of getting an STI or HIV depends on what kind of... Read more

• Keeping your genitals healthy

  Getting to know your genitals and knowing how to care for them is super important.  Not only does it allow you to keep them healthy, it also means that if... Read more

• Dealing with sexual anxiety

  Whether you’re new to sex or pretty experienced, sexual anxiety is real and can impact you at any stage. But never fear, we’ve put together some info to help you... Read more

• Guess who’s back, back again…Syphilis

  You may think of syphilis as an infection that affected people back in the days of Henry VIII, but we’re here to tell you that syphilis is not only alive... Read more

• Everything you need to know about condoms

  When it comes to safe sex, nothing beats a condom.   How to use a condom  When they’re used correctly, condoms are over 98% effective, but, it’s easy to make mistakes... Read more

• Is my body ‘normal’?

  Having sex (of any kind) involves partial or full nudity. So, whether you’re engaging in penetrative sex, or having some fun with oral or foreplay — one thing’s for sure,... Read more

• 6 things we wish sex ed had taught us

  With consent education becoming mandatory for schools in NSW and VIC, we thought it would be worth revisiting sexual education as a whole. Whether you graduated in the early 00’s,... Read more

• Is penile discharge normal?

  Penile discharge is a watery or thickened fluid that sometimes comes out of the penis. It travels down the middle of the penis to the opening at the head (glans)... Read more

• Having sex for the first time? Here’s what to expect…

  So, you’re thinking about having penetrative sex for the first time? Penetrative sex (aka sexual intercourse) can be an enjoyable way to connect and get closer with someone. It’s healthy... Read more

• Awkward sex ‘problems’ that are actually totally normal

  A fulfilling sex life doesn’t look the same for everyone. Some love the intimacy of an exclusive relationship, others enjoy experimenting with different sexual partners. There’s no ‘right’ way to... Read more

• Ask Nurse Nettie: the top 10 questions from 2021

  Nurse Nettie, our resident sexual health expert, is available throughout the year to answer sexual health and relationship questions from young people across NSW.  All answers are 100% anonymous (always)... Read more

• How to improve your sex life overnight

  Do you want an amazing sex life; one that’s satisfying, exciting and safe? There’s more to it than simply trying the latest moves you’ve seen in porn. From open communication... Read more

• What’s the difference between an STI and an STD?

  STI stands for Sexually Transmitted Infection, not disease. That last word makes all the difference because most of the bacteria or viruses passed on via sex are actually infections, not... Read more

• The Dos and Don’ts of Condoms

  Did you know that condoms are the only form of contraception that protect against both unplanned pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs)? When they’re used correctly they’re over 98% effective,... Read more

• Safe sex for young people: how to protect yourself from STIs

  By understanding the risks associated with sex – and doing what you can do to minimise them – you can protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and take control... Read more

• Is it normal to bleed after sex?

  Bleeding from inside the vagina after penetrative sex is called post-coital bleeding, and is more common than you might think. There are plenty of reasons why it might be happening... Read more

• Preparing to have sex for the first time

  Deciding to have sex for the first time is a big decision. Being prepared is one of the best things that you can do to make sure it’s  safe and... Read more

• The complete guide to the internal condom

  Everyone knows what a condom is, but hands up if you’ve ever heard of the internal condom (also known as the female condom)? This lesser-known barrier contraceptive gets inserted into... Read more

• What’s it like getting an STI test in NSW?

  Even though it’s a normal part of a healthy and enjoyable sex life, getting an STI test can sometimes feel daunting. To show that there’s really nothing to worry about,... Read more

• Can pre-cum get you pregnant?

  Pre-cum (or pre-ejaculate if we want to use the fancy proper name), is fluid that’s released from the penis during foreplay or sex. It usually happens during arousal, and a... Read more

• Can I get an STI from that?

  Sex is great. But also kinda confusing sometimes. What risks are there for different kinds of sex? And how do you stay safe and take control of your sexual health?... Read more

• What to do if you’re allergic to condoms

  Condoms are the only form of contraception that protect against STIs and unplanned pregnancy. Although most people have no problems using condoms, a small proportion of people can be allergic... Read more

• 5 condom myths

  Did you know that condoms are the only form of contraception that protects against both STIs and pregnancy? But for some reason, some people choose not to use them when... Read more

• Herpes Pt 1: Everything you need to know

  Herpes might be the most misunderstood infections around so let’s start with the facts. Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is usually passed on by kissing, oral sex, vaginal sex or anal... Read more

• 5 myths about STI testing – busted

  Getting an STI test is a normal part of a healthy and confident sex life, but sometimes it can feel daunting or confusing. But have no fear because we’re here... Read more

• What STI tests do I need?

  Did you know that the types of STI tests you need differ depending on the type of sex you’re having? There are a few different types of STI tests –... Read more

• Yeast Infection / Thrush

  An overgrowth of naturally occurring yeast in the vagina commonly causing itch, skin irritation, and a clumpy white discharge. The same infection on the head of the penis is often... Read more

• Withdrawal

  Pulling the penis out of the vagina before ejaculation in order to avoid pregnancy. It is a less reliable form of birth control and does not protect against STIs.... Read more

• Tampon

  A small cylinder of disposable absorbent fibre that can be put inside the vagina to absorb menstrual flow.... Read more

• Syphilis

  A bacterial infection that can be transmitted through vaginal, anal or oral sex. It is curable with antibiotics but can cause brain damage and even death if untreated.... Read more

• Spooning

  A position where two people lie curled against each other, both facing the same direction. It can be a way of just cuddling or sleeping or a position for vaginal... Read more

• Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI)

  An infection that can be passed from one person to another through sexual contact: usually vaginal, anal or oral sex. Sometimes referred to as a “sexually transmitted disease (STD)” or... Read more

• Sexual Arousal

  Physiological response to sexual excitement e.g. erection, vaginal lubrication.... Read more

• Sex Change Operation

  Interventions intended to alter the sex organs to conform to one’s gender identity. For MTFs, this is usually the removal of the testes and the surgical creation of a vagina... Read more

• Queef

  The sound made when a small amount of air is forced out of the vagina during vaginal penetration or as a result of certain movements.... Read more

• Perineum

  The area between the anus and the vaginal opening or the anus and the scrotum.... Read more

• Morning After Pill

  Emergency contraception pill taken after condomless vaginal sex to prevent pregnancy from that one event. It’s more effective the sooner you take it, but can be used up to five... Read more

• Menstrual Flow

  Blood, fluid, and tissue that are passed from the uterus out of the vagina during the beginning of the menstrual cycle. Often called a “period.” (see also menses)... Read more

• Menses

  Blood, fluid, and tissue that are passed from the uterus out of the vagina during the beginning of the menstrual cycle. Often called a “period.” (see also menstrual flow)... Read more

• Lubricant

  A substance that increases slipperiness and reduces irritation caused by sexual friction/rubbing. Natural lubricants are produced during arousal in the vagina and Bartholins glands on the vulva. Manufactured lubricants (lube)... Read more

• Hymen

  A thin tissue that stretches across part of the opening of the vagina at birth. It gradually wears away due to hormones, discharge, general activity, masturbation or penetrative sex.... Read more

• HBV (Hepatitis B Virus)

  A viral liver infection transmitted through blood, vaginal fluid, semen and saliva. Most people infected as adults will completely recover, but it can become chronic and even life-threatening. Vaccination is... Read more

• Gonorrhea

  A bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can be transmitted through vaginal, anal or oral sex. It will usually cause significant pain passing urine and pus from the penis in... Read more

• Genitals

  External sex and reproductive organs, commonly defined as the vulva, vagina in female-assigned people and penis, scrotum in male-assigned people.... Read more

• G spot

  The G spot (or Gräfenberg spot) is an area of tissue, located about one-third of the way along the upper wall of the vagina. Stimulation of the G-spot can lead... Read more

• What is oral sex?

  Whether you’re preparing for penetrative sex or you’re just not quite ready to go ‘all the way’; oral sex is a great way to experience and experiment with intimacy. Officially,... Read more

• Popping your cherry

  Ever heard the phrase “popping your cherry”? It’s slang for losing your virginity and refers to the tearing (stretching open) or “popping” of the hymen during vaginal sex (penis-in-vagina intercourse).... Read more

• Let’s talk lube

  Lubricant, or lube, increases pleasure for girls and guys, during sex, making sex more comfortable and enjoyable. Lube is used to decrease friction, which means sex with lube won’t be... Read more

• Foreplay

  Foreplay is usually a big part of sex – some might even say the best part.  What is foreplay? Foreplay builds sexual arousal and pleasure through physical and mental stimulation.... Read more

• Sex toys – the low down

  Sex toys can bring extra fun to masturbating and sex. They’re not just for using alone – they’re also a lot of fun to use with someone else too.  Sex... Read more

• Lumps, bumps & itching – Taking care down there

  It’s pretty easy to have a freak out when you find a strange lump or bump on or around your genitals. Luckily most of them harmless but it’s better to... Read more

• Where did the Condom go?

  So you’ve just had sex, but the condom has disappeared? No need to freak out, here are a few steps you can take. Find the condom The first thing you... Read more

• What does the word “sex” mean to you?

  Have you just started our ‘Have I got an STI?’ quiz but you’re not sure if the questions apply to you? That’s because sex isn’t quite as simple as it... Read more

• Speculum

  A plastic or metal instrument used to hold open the walls of the vagina so a health care provider can examine the vagina and cervix.... Read more

• Menstruation

  The flow of blood, fluid, and tissue out of the uterus and through the vagina that usually lasts from three to seven days.... Read more

• Fingering

  Slang for stimulating a vagina and/or anus with finger(s) either on yourself or another person.... Read more

• Douche

  A spray of water or solution of soap or medication into the vagina or anus.... Read more

• Dildo

  A penis-shaped sex toy used to stimulate the vagina or anus.... Read more

• Cunnilingus

  Using the mouth to stimulate the clitoris, vulva and vagina for sexual pleasure. Also known as oral sex.... Read more

• Chlamydia

  Chlamydia is the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) in Australia. It can be transmitted through vaginal, anal or oral sex. It is curable with antibiotic medication.... Read more

• Cervix

  The cervix is the lowest part of the uterus at the end of the vaginal canal. It has a small opening that allows menstrual blood to pass from the uterus... Read more

• 10 ways to be better in bed – via GIF

  Want a session you’ll never forget? 1. Talk Talking about sex, makes the actual sex better. Share what you like and don’t like. 2. Laugh Let’s face it. Sex has... Read more

• Nurse Nettie reveals the top 10 questions for 2017

  Nurse Nettie is a sexual health nurse who has heaps of experience. She’s the perfect person to give you the very best advice for taking care of yourself and playing... Read more

• The Big O… Orgasms!

  Let’s talk about the big O – Orgasms! What is an orgasm? Having an orgasm or “coming” is what happens when you hit your sexual climax. It’s an intense feeling... Read more

• Hepatitis – everything you need to know

  So what is Viral Hepatitis? Hepatitis is a viral illness that makes the liver sick. The three most common types are: A, B and C. Because of the job the... Read more

• A guide to menstrual Cups

  When compared with tampons or pads, menstrual cups have historically been the less popular choice for period management. However that’s now shifting and there are two big reasons as to... Read more

• Thrush

  It can often make women feel embarrassed, miserable and even dirty. But thrush, also called Candidiasis, is more common than you think! It happens in around 50% of women at... Read more

• What is gonorrhoea?

  Hey, Nurse Nettie here for a quick chat about gonorrhoea or “Gono” for short. I’ve even heard it called the “Clap” (no round of applause please!). Gonorrhoea is an STI... Read more

• Wrap your tool

  We’re all told time and time again to use condoms to reduce the chance of pregnancy and STIs. But it’s not very often we’re told how they work. Body fluids... Read more

• Penile Discharge

  What’s normal? For guys, the urethra runs through the middle of the penis to the opening at the head of the penis (glans), and carries urine (pee) during urination or... Read more

• What is herpes?

  Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two types:  HSV 1 (usually known as cold sores) and HSV 2 (usually known as genital herpes). It’s really... Read more

• What is anal sex?

  Bottom, ring, anus, butt or arse… Whether male or female we all have one! And just like our genitals, our anus is very sensitive and can be part of sex.... Read more

• What are periods?

  Aunty Flo, rags, blob, shark week, have the painters in, closed for business, being a girl, opening the flood gates, the red river, leak week, that time of the month…... Read more

• Small word. Big expectations.

    SEX. It’s amazing how such a small word can seem so huge. Sex can make us feel curious and excited. It can also make us nervous, embarrassed, and clueless.... Read more

• Lumps & Bumps

  I’ve been getting questions lately from people worried about lumps and bumps on and around their genitals (penis, vagina, and anal area). To put you all at ease I asked... Read more