Casual sex
Sex between partners who are not in a relationship with one another.
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 into the vagina. The opening can also allow sperm to travel up into the uterus to reach an egg.
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.
Cisgender
Refers to the gender experiences of people whose gender identity is typically associated with the sex assigned to them at birth.
Clitoral Hood
A small flap of skin formed by the inner labia that covers and protects the tip of the clitoris.
Clitoris
The female sex organ that is very sensitive to the touch. It is made of spongy tissue that swells with blood during sexual excitement. The external tip of the clitoris is located at the top of the vulva, where the inner lips meet. The clitoris is the only organ in the human body whose only purpose is sexual pleasure.
Closeted / In the closet
Concealing one’s sexual orientation (especially bisexual, lesbian, gay, or transgender) to oneself and/or others.
Coming out
1) the process by which one accepts and/or comes to identify one’s own sexuality or gender identity (to “come out” to oneself).
2) The process by which one shares one’s sexuality or gender identity with others (to “come out” to friends, etc.).
Condom
A thin sheath, usually made of latex, designed to cover the penis during penetrative sex. When used correctly, it is very effective at preventing pregnancy and/or reducing the risk of giving or receiving STIs. Read our complete guide to using condoms here.
Cross-dressing
Cross-dressing is the act of wearing clothes or other items typically associated with the opposite sex.
Cryotherapy
Common method of treating warts and other skin lesions by freezing them, usually with liquid nitrogen.
Cum
Slang word used for both "ejaculate" and "orgasm"
Cunnilingus
Using the mouth to stimulate the clitoris, vulva and vagina for sexual pleasure. Also known as oral sex.
Dental Dam
A stretchable square of latex used as a barrier during certain dental procedures to keep particles from falling into the throat. Also used as a barrier for safer sex during cunnilingus and anilingus.
Diaphragm
A soft rubber dome intended to fit securely over the cervix. It is advised to have it size fitted by a doctor / clinic first. Used with contraceptive cream or jelly, the diaphragm is a barrier method of birth control which is available over the counter, at Family Planning Clinics or purchased online.
Dildo
A penis-shaped sex toy used to stimulate the vagina or anus.
Douche
A spray of water or solution of soap or medication into the vagina or anus.
Drag King
Someone who performs masculinity theatrically.
Drag Queen
Someone who performs femininity theatrically.
Dry Humping
Rubbing bodies, especially the genitals, against each other while wearing clothes.
Egg
The female reproductive cell, also called an ovum, stored in the ovaries and released during ovulation. When an egg is fertilised by a sperm, pregnancy can result.
Embryo
The organism of developing cells that results from the fertilisation of an egg by a sperm in very early pregnancy. After about eight weeks of development, this organism becomes known as a fetus.
Endometrium
The inside lining of the uterus. It thickens to enable implantation of a fertilised egg mid-cycle and is shed during menstruation when pregnancy has not occurred.
Epididymis
The tube leading from the testis to the vas deferens in which sperm are stored before ejaculation. It is tightly coiled on top of and behind the testis.
Erectile Dysfunction
The inability to get or maintain an erection of the penis. It is normal for this to happen occasionally. It can be a sign of disease, but is more commonly caused by anxiety, alcohol/drugs and certain medications. Also known as impotence.
Erection
Commonly used to describe the penis during sexual excitation when it is engorged with blood and becomes stiff. The same effect also occurs in the clitoris.
Erogenous Zone
Any area of the body that is sensitive to sensual touch.
Erotic
Sexually arousing.
