Sexual Education

For secondary
In three sessions
Index
● Biological and anatomical sexuality
○ Female anatomy
○ Male anatomy
○ Sexual intercourse
● Sexuality as a behaviour
● Diversity of sexual activity
● Sexuality in society
● Sexual orientation labels
● Sexual practices
○ Techniques
○ Variations with partners
● Sexual health
○ STDs
○ Other diseases
○ Contraception
○ Proconception
○ Hygiene
1
What is sexuality?
1. Sexuality as a Biological genetic composition: in humans this is cells with
DNA that have XX(♀) or XY(♂) chromosomes. There are humans with other
combinations (eg Jacobs syndrome XYY, Klinefelter syndrome XXY, Turner X, and
Mosaicism = some cells XX and some XY - all of these produce disadvantageous
physical and mental characteristics). Female humans have female reproductive organs
(genitals, functional developed breasts) and develop the descendancy inside
(pregnancy).
2. Sexuality as Anatomical differences: the reproductive organs produce
hormones in different quantity (women have more estrogen and progesterone, and less
testosterone) which develop and maintain some differences. Women tend to have (on
average) wider and more frontal-angled hips, smaller in size, less muscle in the upper
body, more flexibility, better resistance to fatigue, less corporal hair, less tendency to
baldness and better tolerance to pain.
○ In other living beings it can be different, with males getting pregnant, being
smaller, less strong, etc.
○ There is no statistical difference in intelligence between sexes. Social behaviour
(eg being “sporty”) is of cultural origin and not created by genetics.
○ These are averages: many women can be stronger or less flexible than many
men, many men can have wider hips or bigger breasts, etc.
○ These characteristics can be changed or reversed in both directions by hormonal
treatment, illnesses, or surgical intervention.
Female sexual
organ anatomy

Vagina Urethra
Anus

Le Menstrual cycle
as
t fe
rti
le

fe rtile
Most
Male sexual
organ anatomy

Gland

Penis

Prepuce

Erection and ejaculation

Sexual intercourse stages
● Excitement: the brain sends subconscious signals to penis and clitoris, both inflate with
blood (erection, more visible in men). The vagina and the bulbourethral gland both
secrete lubricants (in men some drops can appear). Condoms should now be put on.
● Then in penetration the penis goes into the vagina. It is important there is communication
between partners - the vagina may be too tight or not lubricated enough due to stress.
Artificial lubricants can help.
● Plateau: back and forth motion stimulate the pleasure receptors mainly in the penis gland
and in the clitorial area, but all erogenous areas can contribute. Muscles of the vagina
and muscles around the vas deferens tighten.
● Orgasm: peak pleasure creates sudden contractions that push semen (liquid+sperm) into
the vagina (ejaculation) while the cervix pushes down against the penis gland.
● Resolution: the muscles relax and penis is withdrawn out - if condom has been used it
should be held while coming out, as it may slip and stay inside the vagina by mistake.

Female in red

Male in blue
Activity: Orgasm: peak pleasure
c
1. Label the missing items:
b creates sudden contractions
that push semen
(liquid+sperm) into the vagina
while the cervix pushes down
against the penis gland.
d
Ejaculation: when
contractions push semen
(liquid+sperm) into the
a
vagina.

f
Penis

Prepuce

g
Activity: Orgasm: peak pleasure
1. Label the missing items:
creates sudden contractions
that push semen
(liquid+sperm) into the vagina
while the cervix pushes down
against the penis gland.
Ejaculation: when
contractions push semen
(liquid+sperm) into the
vagina.

Gland

Penis

Prepuce
2
3. Sexuality as a behaviour: sexual intercourse is the actions that lead to the joining
of sperm (XY gamete) and ovule (XX gamete). This can refer to only the penetration
(penis insertion in the vagina, Coitus / Copulation) or it can include courtship rituals.
Most animals have courtship rituals. Humans are complex social animals, and the
boundary of courtship is difficult to define as it can include the non-physical social
relations with other people such as flirting, or how they present themselves (sexual
identity and behaviour), or how they appear (aspect, clothing, make-up).
○ Sexual physical activity, sexual proclaimed identity, sexual appearance and sexual
social behaviour do not necessarily coincide, and all four can be different in the
same person.
○ Different societies accept more or less different sexual behaviours. In a free
society, we should be tolerant to any behaviour that does not cause harm to other
people without their consent (which sometimes is the case).
■ Physical harm is easier to identify.
■ Emotional harm is less clear and the law regulates it in different ways in
different countries, as what people find unacceptably outrageous depends on
the average society and the context. For example being naked in a nudist
beach in Spain is fine, being naked in a spanish school is not. Morally,
intentional behaviour to make another person feel bad is to be avoided. If you
or someone else is being sexually abused you can call the police (112) or the
sexual abuse helpline in Spain (016).
Diversity of sexuality
Sexual activity varies in every person. There are many words to classify sexual behaviours
but it is important to remember that these are artificial human-created classifications:

● In an increasingly mediatic world, more and more words appear. Every person is
different in what they understand as sex and in what they do, and no label is going to
perfectly describe all the complexities of a person.
● Most people also change what they do and with who during their lifetime. A person
does not “belong” to a label and can change their mind at any point.
● Labels can be used as useful neutral or positive words, or as negative words
depending on the tone and context in which we communicate. It is important to be
respectful and moderate when we talk to other people, whatever our personal beliefs.
● Knowledge is always positive. It allows us to understand the world around us and to
make informed decisions. Not talking about something is not going to solve any
problem or improve anyone’s life.

Labelling =
marginalisation
● Acceptance of sexuality in others:
○ Heteronormative: it assumes that there are only two distinct, opposite genders (male and female)
and that sexual and marital relations are most fitting between people of the opposite sex.
■ Gender norms: Social standards about what is appropriate feminine and masculine behaviour.
■ Monogamy: to have sexual interactions with only one person at a time.
■ Polygamy: to have sexual interactions with more than one person at a time (simultaneous or
not). Polygamy is accepted (normative) in many societies.
○ Queer/Questioning: sexualities that do not fit the traditional sexualities accepted in society. Usually
refers to LBGTQ+ (lesbian, bisexual, gay, transexual, queer, plus others).
■ Homophobia: Intentional hostile and/or violence acts, behaviours and beliefs directed against
people who are perceived not to be heterosexual.
Sexuality in society:

● Assigned sex at birth / biological sex: external anatomical characteristic.

○ Female: produces ovules / has corresponding reproductive organs.
○ Male: produces sperm / has corresponding reproductive organs.
○ Intersex: natural intermediate anatomical characteristics (around 2% of the population).
● Gender identity: a person's own understanding of who they are sexually, as distinct from their physical
characteristics. Words below refer to this.
○ Male: behaviour stereotype of XY individuals in society.
○ Female: behaviour stereotype of XX individuals in society.
○ Cisgender: identity is the same as the assigned sex at birth.
○ Transgender: sexual identity different to the assigned sex at birth.
■ Non-binary: intermediate or different behaviours.
■ Bigender: has two gender identities either simultaneously or at different times.
● Androgynous: partly male and partly female identity simultaneously.
■ Bicurious: undecided / wants to explore other sexualities.
■ Gender-Nonconforming: behavior different to a society's expectations for a specific gender.
■ Gender-Fluid: proclaimed identity changes over time.
■ Third gender: person who does not identify with either man or woman, there are societies that
recognised (now and historically) three or more genders.
● Sexual orientation: a person's pattern of emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction to other people
(definitions below).
Sexual orientation labels:
○ Hypersexual: Having more libido (sexual desire) than most people.
○ Hyposexual: Having less libido (sexual desire) than most people.
■ Asexual: no sexual attraction to others.
■ Apothesxuality: little sexual attraction to others.
■ Greysexuality: only occasional sexual attraction to others.
■ Fraysexuality: low sexual attraction due to trauma or stress.
○ Monosexual: attracted to only one sex.
■ Heterosexual / straight: attraction to the opposite sex.
■ Homosexual: attraction to the same sex. Males = gay, females = lesbian.
○ Polysexual: attraction to more than one gender identity.
■ Bisexual: attraction to females and males.
● Heteroflexibility: mainly heterosexual but homosexuality in certain situations or moments.
● Homoflexibility: mainly homosexual but heterosexuality in certain situations or moments.
● Ambisexuality: equally attracted to females and males.
■ Trisexual: attraction to females, males and non-binary.
○ Pansexual: attraction depending on characteristics that are not gender.
■ Speciosexuality: attraction to specific characteristics that are not sexuality.
■ Omnisexuality: attraction to all genders.
■ Demisexual: attraction only through strong emotional connection.
■ Androphilia: attraction to masculine appearances (regardless of anatomy).
■ Gynephilia: attraction to feminine appearances (regardless of anatomy).
■ Sapiosexual: attraction to intelligence qualities rather than physical or sexual.
■ Placiosexuality: attraction to slow-paced / tender relations (less intense physical activities).
■ Reciprosexuality: attraction to people who are attracted to them.
■ Autochorisexuality: sexual attraction without getting involved.
■ Lithsexuality: attraction to others but do not need / want reciprocity.
■ Skoliosexuality: attraction depending on their gender identity regardless of anatomy.
○ Fluidity: do not identify with any label because their attractions change over time.
■ Abrosexuality: attractions fluctuate in kind and intensity over time.
■ Pomosexuality: rejects any label at any point (ironically this is also a label…).
Sexual practices:
How we practice sex is always different, depending on with who, on the occasion, or on how we feel at that
moment. The main rule is that no one should be forced to do anything they do not want to do. Constant
communication with your partner, asking if everything is alright, and accepting that we can change our mind at
any point is essential.
● Age of consent: The age at which the law considers a person old enough to decide to have sex with another person. Until
you've reached that age - 'the age of consent' - the law says you cannot give your permission to have sex. So even though
you might have agreed to have sex with someone, that person can still be charged with sexual assault if you haven't
reached the age of consent. In Spain this is 16 years old.
● Techniques:
○ Foreplay: physical activity that happens before intercourse, like kissing, touching, or oral sex.
○ Vaginal, oral, anal sex: sexual activity involving the vagina, mouth, or anus.
○ Fingering: using fingers for sexual stimulation.
○ Cunnilingus: Using the mouth to stimulate the clitoris, vulva and vagina for sexual pleasure. Also known as oral sex.
○ Dry Humping: Rubbing bodies, especially the genitals, against each other while wearing clothes.
○ Anal douching: injecting water into the anus to clean it, which can have health risks if done too frequently.
○ G-spot: (or Gräfenberg spot) erogenous area (which provides sexual pleasure) one-third of the way along the upper
wall of the vagina in women or inside the anal opening below the prostate in men, stimulation can lead to orgasm in
some people and sometimes causes male/female ejaculation. A-spot: area deeper in the vagina, located next to or
just underneath the cervix, can provide pleasure and increase vaginal lubrication.
○ Dildo: A penis-shaped sex toy used to stimulate the vagina or anus.
○ Vibrator: An electrically powered sex toy, often in the shape of a penis, that applies
vibrations to sex organs or other erogenous zones for sexual stimulation.
○ Strap-on: dildo that can be worn and is commonly used for sexual penetration.
○ Masturbation: Touching one's own genitals for sexual pleasure.
○ Hand Job: hand stimulation of another person's genitals.
○ Sixty-nine / 69: A position for two people to give each other oral sex simultaneously.
○ Spooning: when two people lie curled against each other, both facing the same direction.
○ Role-Play: Acting out a fantasy with a partner.
Sex Toys
● Variations with partners:
○ Casual sex / Hook-up: Sex between partners who are not in a relationship with one another. Protection against
illnesses is very important as there is no information about the health of the partner.
○ Sexting: Using a mobile phone to send a sexy text message or image - often of oneself. This practice is very risky as
photographs can later be circulated on internet to other people - even if by mistake. Also it is important that this is
done with consent from both the sender and the receiver.
○ Friends with benefits / Fuck buddy: Slang for a casual sexual partner, with whom you have an ongoing sexual
relationship, without a romantic relationship.
○ Kink: a non-standard sexual activity, fetish or interest. Vanilla: Slang for conventional / non-kinky sexual activity.
■ Bondage & Discipline (B&D): consensual sexual role-play that includes performance of power and
submission. Often involves physical restraint and pain. Sadism: Deriving pleasure from inflicting pain.
Bondage: to tie/restrain someone.
■ Dominance and submission (D/s): consensual power exchange, one partner taking a dominant role and the
other a submissive one. The dominant partner typically provides structure and leadership, while the
submissive partner offers trust and support. Healthy D/s dynamics rely on mutual respect, communication,
and consent, where both individuals' needs are valued and addressed. Fluid communication is essential.
■ S&M (Sadomasochism): consensual use of domination and/or pain within mutually decided limits in sexual
role play. The “sadist” dominates and inflicts pain. The “masochist” is submissive and receives pain. A safe
word is chosen in advance that can be used at any time to stop the sexual role play.
■ Cross-dressing: wearing clothes or other items typically associated with the opposite sex, not necessarily part
of a sexual activity. Drag King: Someone who performs masculinity theatrically. Drag Queen: Someone who
performs femininity theatrically.
■ Polyamory / Polyamorous / Open relationship: union of two people who agree that they can have other sex
[Link] may include open relationships, polyfidelity (more than two people being in a closed
relationship), swinging (occasionally exchanging partners), having a “primary” partner and “secondary”
partner, etc.
■ Paraphilias: attraction to anything not sexual by nature (eg. exhibitionistic, fetishistic, frotteuristic, paedophilia,
masochism, sadism, transvestic, voyeuristic, etc). Consensual paraphilias that do not harm others and do not
break the law should be respected and tolerated. List in wikipedia:
[Link]
Activity:
1. Fill the missing items:

a. Sexual physical activity, sexual proclaimed identity, sexual appearance and sexual social
behaviour are the four different aspects of sexuality in society, and all four can be different in
the same person.
b. The police number is 112, and the sexual abuse helpline in Spain is 016.
c. Cisgender: when identity is the same as the assigned sex at birth.
d. Bicurious is a person with undecided sexuality or who wants to explore other sexualities.
e. Fraysexuality is when a person has low sexual attraction due to trauma or stress.
f. Heteroflexibility: mainly heterosexual but homosexuality in certain situations or moments.
g. Gynephilia: attraction to feminine appearances (regardless of anatomy).
h. The age of consent or age at which the law in Spain considers a person legally old enough to
decide to have sex with another person is 16.
i. Erogenous area: part of the body that provides sexual pleasure.
j. Kink is a non-standard sexual activity, considered the opposite of “vanilla sex”.

2. Answer the questions:

a. Can a person change their sexual identity? Why?
○ Yes, gender identity is a label we apply to ourselves and we can choose it at will. No one
can enforce a label on us.
b. Is heteronormative a tolerant attitude? Why?
○ No, it makes assumptions about how people should identify (only female or male) and
behave (only accepts marital relations between females and males).
c. Which sexual practice involving internet is risky? Why?
○ Sexting: risky as photographs can circulated onto other people, and maybe the receiver
does not give consent - this would be a crime punishable by law.
Activity:
1. Fill the missing items:

a. Sexual physical activity, sexual proclaimed identity, sexual appearance and sexual social
behaviour are the four different aspects of sexuality in society, and all four can be different in
the same person.
b. The police number is 112, and the sexual abuse helpline in Spain is 016.
c. Cisgender: when identity is the same as the assigned sex at birth.
d. Bicurious is a person with undecided sexuality or who wants to explore other sexualities.
e. Fraysexuality is when a person has low sexual attraction due to trauma or stress.
f. Heteroflexibility: mainly heterosexual but homosexuality in certain situations or moments.
g. Gynephilia: attraction to feminine appearances (regardless of anatomy).
h. The age of consent or age at which the law in Spain considers a person legally old enough to
decide to have sex with another person is 16.
i. Erogenous area: part of the body that provides sexual pleasure.
j. Kink is a non-standard sexual activity, considered the opposite of “vanilla sex”.

2. Answer the questions:

a. Can a person change their sexual identity? Why?
○ Yes, gender identity is a label we apply to ourselves and we can choose it at will. No one
can enforce a label on us.
b. Is heteronormative a tolerant attitude? Why?
○ No, it makes assumptions about how people should identify (only female or male) and
behave (only accepts marital relations between females and males).
c. Which sexual practice involving internet is risky? Why?
○ Sexting: risky as photographs can circulated onto other people, and maybe the receiver
does not give consent - this would be a crime punishable by law.
3 Sexual Health:
As defined by the World Health Organisation: "sexual health is a state of physical, mental and social well-being
in relation to sexuality. It requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as
well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination and
violence." A Gynecologist is a medical doctor who specialises in female sexual and reproductive health. If any
doubt, ask your doctor to have an appointment with the gynaecologist.
Problems that interfere with sexual health:
● Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD): An illlness can be passed from one person to another through
sexual contact: usually vaginal, anal or oral sex. Sometimes referred to as a "sexually transmitted
infection (STI)" or "venereal disease (VD)"
○ Chlamydia: 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.
○ Genital warts: Small skin-coloured growths caused by a number of strains of the STI human papilloma virus (HPV). They may look like
miniature cauliflower florets and are painless.
○ 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 male-assigned people and sometimes an abnormal vaginal discharge, bleeding or
pain with sex in female-assigned people. It is curable with antibiotic medication.
○ 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 life-threatening. Vaccination is recommended for everyone to prevent infection.
○ Herpes: Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is a common skin condition that can cause painful blisters on the mouth and/or genitals. There are
two types: HSV-1 can cause mouth or genital symptoms. HSV-2 usually causes genital symptoms. Many people with HSV-1 or 2 will never
experience symptoms at all. For those who do get symptoms, there is medication to help, but no cure.
○ HPV (Human Papilloma Virus): A common viral STI that is transmitted through skin-to-skin friction. There are many types of HPV, some
can cause warts, some are associated with cancers, some will have no effect.
○ Jock Itch: A very common fungal skin infection affecting the genitals, buttocks and inner thighs. It causes a reddish, scaly rash that can
become inflamed, itchy, and painful.
○ PID (Pelvic Inflammatory Disease): An infection of the female reproductive system that can cause abnormal bleeding, chronic pain, and
subfertility or infertility. It is often caused by untreated sexually transmitted infections, such as gonorrhoea and chlamydia.
○ Syphilis: bacterial infection transmitted through vaginal, anal or oral sex. It is curable with antibiotics but can cause brain damage and even
death if untreated.
○ Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A bacterial infection of the urinary tract which can include the bladder, urethra and kidneys. It commonly
causes an uncomfortable sensation of needing to urinate frequently and pain passing urine. It is curable with antibiotics.
○ 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 referred to as balanitis. It can be treated with medication.
○ Pubic Lice: A sexually transmitted parasite that lives in the pubic hair and causes itching.
○ HIV is spread primarily by unprotected sex (including anal, oral and vaginal sex), contaminated hypodermic needles or blood transfusions,
and from mother to child during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding. Some bodily fluids, such as saliva, sweat, and tears, do not transmit
the virus. Oral sex has little risk of transmitting the virus.
● Non infectious illnesses:
○ Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A common condition characterised by having multiple cysts on the
ovaries plus symptoms related to a hormonal imbalance: typically acne, increased body hair, weight
gain, irregular periods, and reduced fertility.
○ Premature Ejaculation: Orgasm and ejaculation that occurs both quicker than the person would like
and also after very little sexual stimulation (e.g. less than one minute after penetration)
○ Spotting: Light bleeding between menstrual periods. This can sometimes be a sign of infection or other
condition and should be discussed with a doctor.
○ Erectile Dysfunction: The inability to get or maintain an erection of the penis. It is normal for this to
happen occasionally, but can be considered an illness if maintained over a long period of time. It can
be a sign of disease, but is more commonly caused by anxiety, alcohol/drugs and certain medications.
Also known as impotence.
○ PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome): A range of emotional and physical symptoms that many people
experience just before and during menstruation. Some of the common symptoms are: feeling fatigued
and irritable, being bloated and having cramps, tender breasts, and headaches.
● Other issues that are not diseases:
○ Virginity: Virginity means never having had sex, but sex can be defined many ways. Virginity is a
cultural idea, not a physiological condition, and therefore not intrinsically better or worse for overall
health - it should not be considered either good or bad.
○ Hymen: A thin naturally formed tissue that stretches across part of the opening of the vagina at birth. It
gradually wears away due to hormones, age, discharge, general activity, exercise, masturbation or
penetrative sex. Many virgins have no hymen.
○ Fertility of a person: it depends on many factors such as the quality of the sperm and ovules (age,
overall health, genetic characteristics), the compatibility between the two partners, stress, etc.
Infertility does not make anyone less valuable. Fertility can be changed by using conceptives (more
information below).
Conceptives: methods that increase or decrease the probability of pregnancy.
Anticonceptive methods (contraceptives):
○ Lubricant: A substance that increases slipperiness and reduces irritation caused by sexual friction/rubbing.
Artificial lubricants (lube) are water, oil or silicon-based. Oil lubes can break condoms.
○ 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.
○ Condom: A thin sheath, usually made of latex, designed to cover the penis (male condom) or vagina
(femidom) during penetrative sex. When used correctly, it is very effective at preventing pregnancy and/or
reducing the risk of giving or receiving STDs.
○ Diaphragm: A removable 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 applied before sex, the diaphragm is
a barrier method of birth control. It does not protect from STDs, and it is less effective than the condom.
○ Implant: A matchstick-sized rod that can be inserted under the skin to prevent pregnancy for up to three years.
It is a progestogen-only method of contraception and can be reversed at any time through removal.
○ IUD (intrauterine device): small T-shaped device inserted into the uterus for around 10 years by a doctor.
There are two main types: hormonal (with secondary effects) and copper (without secondary effects). Both are
highly effective, long-lasting forms of reversible birth control, but they do not protect against STDs.
○ 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 days after sex. It does not
prevent implantation of a fertilised egg and does not cause an abortion. It has secondary health effects so it
should not be taken often.
○ Oral Contraceptive Pill: The birth control pill of progesterone + estrogen. It alters the menstrual cycle to
eliminate ovulation and prevent pregnancy. It does not protect from STDs and has secondary effects specially
if taken for long periods (years). Many women feel negative effects while taking them.
○ Contraceptive patch: a skin patch containing hormones that works in the same way as the birth control pill.
○ Mini-Pills: Birth control pills that contain only progesterone. Similar to the normal birth control pill.
○ Vaginal ring: plastic ring with hormones inserted in the vagina for 3 weeks at a time. Similar to the oral pill.
○ Withdrawal: Pulling the penis out of the vagina before ejaculation in order to avoid pregnancy. The most
unreliable form of birth control and does not protect against STDs.
○ Calendar method: having sex during low fertility periods of the menstrual cycle. Menstrual cycles can be
irregular and sperm can survive for up to 5 days, so unreliable. It does not protect from STDs.
○ Surgery in men or women (usually closing the reproductive ducts, as removing ovaries or testicles have
hormonal consequences). Difficult to reverse.
Effectiveness of contraception
(Typical use includes things like missing a pill, a condom
coming off during sex or forgetting to replace a vaginal ring)

Method Typical use Perfect use

Contraceptive implant Over 99% Over 99%
IUS (hormonal coil) Over 99% Over 99%
IUD (copper coil) Over 99% Over 99%
Contraceptive injection 94% Over 99%
Combined pill 91% Over 99%
Progestogen-only pill 91% Over 99%
Contraceptive patch 91% Over 99%
Vaginal ring 91% Over 99%
Condoms 82% 98%
Internal (female) 79% 95%
condoms
Natural family planning 76% 91 to 99% (estimate)
(calendar method)
Diaphragms and caps Unknown 92 to 96% (estimate)
Proconceptive methods (proconceptives):
○ Hormonal treatments: injections to promote ovulation, combined with intentional sex during higher fertility days of the
menstrual cycle.
○ IVF in-vitro fertilisation: after hormonal treatment, extraction with syringes of ovules from the ovaries. The ovules can
be used immediately or frozen for years. They then are fertilised in a lab using sperm, either from the partner or from
a donor. The fertilised ovules can also be frozen for years or used immediately, then reinserted into the uterus. Only
a percentage work depending on many factors.
○ Surrogate mother: woman who gets pregnant, naturally or by IVF, with an arrangement to give the baby to other
people (sometimes the donors of the fertilised ovule).
○ Adoption (making a child of other parents your legal descendant) or fostering (taking care of children for a limited
amount of time): not strictly a proconceptive, but a method of having children without being pregnant. Strictly
regulated by governments as born babies are humans with civil rights.

Sexual hygiene:
● Female:
○ Tampon: A small cylinder of disposable absorbent fibre that can be put inside the vagina to absorb menstrual flow. It
has substances which in contact with the vaginal skin can cause many unhealthy secondary effects and can’t be
reused (bad for the environment and expensive).
○ Sanitary Pad: An absorbent pad made of cotton or similar fibers lined with plastic that is worn against the vulva inside
of underwear to absorb menstrual flow. They absorb less than the tampons but also have substances that can cause
allergic and other secondary effects. It can’t be reused either (bad for the environment and expensive).
○ Menstrual panties: made of cloth/cotton with inner plastic lining. Less chemicals and reusable (washable).
○ Menstrual Cup: A latex or silicone receptacle that fits in the vagina to collect menstrual flow. More difficult to insert
and extract than tampons so it requires learning to install, but reportedly more comfortable once inserted, no
secondary effects and can absorb any quantity of flow. There are different sizes and hardness.
○ Menstrual sponge: A sponge that can absorb menstrual flow, used in the first and last days when the flow is low. No
secondary effects, comfortable once inserted, but cannot be used when the flow is abundant.
● Male:
○ Under the prepuce dirt can accumulate if not washed regularly.
● Both:
○ Vaccination against Human papillomavirus (HPV) is done at age 12 in Spain to both females and males. HPV is
infectious and causes cancer.
○ Washing your hands is recommended before sexual activities.
 Pads

Pads Tampons Pads

Sponges

Cups
Birth control pill (28 days) Pants Ibuprofen
and warm
Cups blaknets
Hormones

Placebo

Conceptive methods

Adoption Hormonal therapy

 Activity:
1. Fill the missing items:

a. A Gynecologist is a medical doctor who specialises in female sexual and reproductive health.
b. The copper IUD is the only reversible, long term contraceptive without hormonal secondary
effects.
c. Morning after pill: contraceptive that can be taken shortly after sex, but which does not protect
from STDs and which has big secondary health effects so it should not be taken often.
d. Withdrawal: the most unreliable form of birth control which also does not protect against STDs.
e. Condoms: the only contraceptives that also protect against all STDs.
f. IVF in-vitro fertilisation: a method of obtaining ovules and sperm, fertilising them in a lab, and
reimplanting them in the uterus.
g. Menstrual cup, pants and sponges: three hygiene methods that do not have secondary health
effects and are reusable (better for the environment).

2. Answer the questions:

a. Give an example of an STD and describe it in one sentence.
○ (open question)

b. What do we call inability to get or maintain an erection of the penis? Is this a disease? Explain.
○ Called erectile dysfunction or impotence. It is a disease only if maintained over time.

c. Can a same person be considered a virgin by some people and not a virgin by others?
○ Yes. Virginity is a cultural idea, and can be defined in many ways by different people.

d. What three disadvantages do tampons and traditional sanitary towels have?

○ Expensive, bad for the environment, and secondary health effects (eg allergies, hormonal
alterations, cancerogenic substances, etc).
 Activity:
1. Fill the missing items:

a. A Gynecologist is a medical doctor who specialises in female sexual and reproductive health.
b. The copper IUD is the only reversible, long term contraceptive without hormonal secondary
effects.
c. Morning after pill: contraceptive that can be taken shortly after sex, but which does not protect
from STDs and which has big secondary health effects so it should not be taken often.
d. Withdrawal: the most unreliable form of birth control which also does not protect against STDs.
e. Condoms: the only contraceptives that also protect against all STDs.
f. IVF in-vitro fertilisation: a method of obtaining ovules and sperm, fertilising them in a lab, and
reimplanting them in the uterus.
g. Menstrual cup, pants and sponges: three hygiene methods that do not have secondary health
effects and are reusable (better for the environment).

2. Answer the questions:

a. Give an example of an STD and describe it in one sentence.
○ (open question)

b. What do we call inability to get or maintain an erection of the penis? Is this a disease? Explain.
○ Called erectile dysfunction or impotence. It is a disease only if maintained over time.

c. Can a same person be considered a virgin by some people and not a virgin by others?
○ Yes. Virginity is a cultural idea, and can be defined in many ways by different people.

d. What three disadvantages do tampons and traditional sanitary towels have?

○ Expensive, bad for the environment, and secondary health effects (eg allergies, hormonal
alterations, cancerogenic substances, etc).
Sexual Education
For secondary
In one session
1
The biology of sex
● Sexuality as a Biological genetic composition: cells with DNA that have
XX(♀) or XY(♂) chromosomes. There are other combinations (eg Jacobs syndrome
XYY, Klinefelter syndrome XXY, Mosaicism = some cells XX and some XY - all of these
with deformations and mental problems).
● Sexuality as Anatomical differences: hormones (women have more estrogen
and less testosterone) develop body differences: women tend to have (on average)
wider and more frontal-angled hips, are smaller in size, less muscle in the upper body,
more flexibility, better resistance to fatigue, less corporal hair, less tendency to baldness
and better tolerance to pain.
○ There is no statistical difference in intelligence or behaviour between sexes.
○ These are averages, eg many women can be stronger than many men, etc.
○ These characteristics can be changed by hormonal treatment, illnesses, or
surgery.
Typical sexual intercourse (actions to join sperm and ovule) stages:
● Excitement: the brain sends signals to penis and clitoris, both inflate with blood
(“erection”), both secrete lubricants (in men some drops). Condoms go on now.
● Penetration/coitus/copulation: penis into the vagina. The vagina may be too tight or not
lubricated enough due to stress - patience and lubricants!
● Plateau: back and forth, muscles around genitals tighten.
● Orgasm: peak pleasure ⇨ contractions push semen (ejaculation) and squeeze penis.
● Resolution: muscles relax - hold the condom while coming out, as it may slip off!
Female sexual
organ anatomy

Vagina Urethra
Anus

Le
as
t fe
rti
le

fe rtile
Most
Male sexual
organ anatomy

Gland

Penis

Prepuce

Sexual Intercourse
Female in red
Erection and ejaculation

Male in blue
2 Sexuality in society
Sexuality as a behaviour: sex includes courtship rituals (behaviours around sexual intercourse), including
non-physical social relations with other people (eg flirting).
● 4 aspects: Sexual physical activity, Sexual proclaimed identity, Sexual appearance and Sexual social
behaviour, all four can be different in the same person. In a free society, we should be tolerant to any
behaviour that does not cause harm to other people without their consent.
● Physical harm is easier to identify. Emotional harm depends on the society (=the law). Eg naked in a
nudist beach is fine, naked in the street is not. If you or someone else is being sexually abused call the
police (112) or the sexual abuse helpline (016).
Diversity of sexuality: Sexuality is different in every person. No label perfectly describes a person. People
change during their lifetime: you do not “belong” to a label and can change your mind at any point.
● Labels can be negative depending on the tone and context. Be respectful and moderate.
● Knowledge is always positive and helps take decisions. Not talking does not improve anyone’s life.
● Gender norms: social standards about sexuality.
○ Heteronormative: only allow heterosexual male & female. Homophobia: hostile to homosexuals.
○ Monogamy: sex with 1 person. Polygamy: several (simultaneous/not). Accepted in many societies.
○ Queer/Questioning: not heteronormative (LBGTQ+ = lesbian, bisex, gay, transex, queer, others).
Sexuality in society:
● Assigned at birth / biological: external anatomical characteristic. Female, male, intersex (2% people).
● Gender identity: a person's own understanding of who they are sexually (not physical characteristics).
○ Male ♂: social behaviour stereotype of XY. Female ♀: stereotype of XX. Non-binary: different.
○ Cisgender: same as the assigned at birth. Transgender: different.
○ Non binaries: Bigender= 2 simultaneously/alternatively, Androgynous= part male and female,
Bicurious= undecided, Gender-Nonconforming=different to male/female, Gender-Fluid= identity
changes over time, Third gender=another social gender (in many societies).
Sexual practices: sex is always different, depending on who, when, or on how we feel at that moment.
No one should be forced to do anything they do not want to do. Talking with your partner and accepting
that we can change our mind at any point is essential. Age of consent: when the law says you are old
enough to decide to have sex with another person. Until then you cannot give your permission to have
sex. So even if you agree to have sex with someone, that person can still be accused of sexual assault if
you haven't reached the age of consent. In Spain this is 16 years old.
Sexual orientation: pattern of emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction to other people. Lots of labels!
Hypersexual (more libido/desire), Hyposexual (less libido), Asexual (no libido), Apothesxual (little), Greysexual (occasional),
Fraysexual (low due to trauma or stress), Monosexual (attracted to 1sex) or Polysexual (to more than one gender),
Heterosexual/straight (to opposite), Homosexual (to same eg gay/lesbian), Bisexual (to ♂ and ♀), Heteroflexible (mainly
heterosexual, occasionally homosexual), Homoflexible (mainly homosexual), Ambisexual (equally to ♂ and ♀),
Trisexual/Omnisexual (to ♂,♀and non-binary), Fluidity (attractions change over time), Abrosexuality (change in kind and
intensity), Pomosexuality (rejects labels), Pansexual (attraction depending on characteristics that are not gender): Speciosexual
(specific non sexual characteristics), Demisexual (to emotions), Androphilia (to ♂appearance regardless of anatomy), Gynephilia
(to ♀appearance), Sapiosexual (to intelligence), Placiosexuality (to less physical relations), Reciprosexuality (to people who are
attracted to them), Autochorisexuality (without getting involved), Lithsexuality (do not need reciprocity), Skoliosexuality (to a
gender identity regardless of anatomy).

Sexual practices vocabulary:

Are there any words you
Foreplay: physical activity before intercourse (kissing, touching, or oral sex).
did not know?
Vaginal, oral, anal sex, fingering: sex with the vagina, mouth (cunninlingus♀/fellatio♂), anus, or fingers. Hygiene please!
Dry Humping: rubbing bodies with clothes. Role-Play: acting out a fantasy with a partner.
Anal douching: showering water into the anus to clean it.
G-spot: spot one-third in the upper wall of the vagina (or in the anus in men). A-spot: spot in the vagina next to the cervix.
Dildo: penis-shaped sex toy. Vibrator: dildo with vibrations. Strap-on: dildo that can be worn.
Masturbation: touching one's own genitals. Hand Job: hand stimulation of another person's genitals.
Sixty-nine: 2-person position for simultaneous oral sex. Spooning: 2-person position curled against each other in same direction.
Casual sex / Hook-up / Friends with benefits / Fuck buddy: sex without a relationship. Protection here is vital!
Sexting: to send a sexy message or image of oneself. Photographs can go to other people - very risky!
Kink: a non-standard sexual activity or interest. Vanilla: conventional sexual activity.
Dominance-Submission: consensual dominant (has power) and submissive (submits to it). Bondage: to tie someone.
Sadomasochism: consensual sadic (does pain) and masochist (gets it). Respect, communication (eg a “stop” word), and consent!
Cross-dressing: wearing clothes of the opposite sex (Drag Queen and Drag King).
Polyamory / Open relationship: people with a relation who agree to have other sex partners. Polyfidelity (more than 2 people in a
closed relationship), Swinging (occasionally exchanging partners), etc.
Paraphilias: attraction to anything not sexual by nature (eg. exhibitionistic, fetishistic, frotteuristic, paedophilia, masochism,
sadism, transvestic, voyeuristic, etc). Consensual paraphilias that do not harm others and do not break the law should be
respected and tolerated. List in wikipedia: [Link]
 Labelling = marginalisation

Do I need to choose a label for me?

Sex Toys
3 Sexual Health: “well-being in relation to sexuality, positive and respectful approach to sexuality and
relationships, pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination and violence."
Gynecologist(♀) /Urologist (♂): doctor specialised in sex/reproductive health. If any doubt, get an appointment!

Problems that interfere with sexual health:

● Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) or infection (STI) or "venereal disease”: an illness that can be passed
from one person to another through sexual contact (vaginal, anal or oral).
○ Chlamydia, Genital warts, Gonorrhea, HBV (Hepatitis B Virus), Herpes, HPV (Human Papilloma Virus),
Jock Itch fungi, PID (Pelvic Inflammatory Disease), Syphilis, Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), Yeast Infection
(“thrush”), Pubic Lice, HIV, etc. Some are very unpleasant and dangerous diseases! Different bodily
fluids, such as blood, semen, mucous fluids, saliva, sweat, tears, transmit different diseases. For
example oral sex has little (but not zero) risk of transmitting HIV virus but easily passes Herpes.
● Non infectious illnesses: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (irregular periods), Premature Ejaculation (<1min),
Spotting (blood), Erectile Dysfunction (repetitive impotence - stress and drugs eg alcohol), PMS
(Premenstrual Syndrome - irritability and cramps).
● NOT diseases:
○ Virginity: a subjective unclear idea, which should not be considered either good or bad.
○ Hymen: thin vagina skin cover at birth. It wears away (age, exercise, etc). Many virgins have no hymen.
○ Infertility: many factors (age, health, genetics, compatibility between partners, stress, etc). Infertility does
not make anyone less valuable.

Sexual hygiene:
○ Tampon: vaginal disposable absorbent cylinder. Has irritants and can’t be reused (bad for environment + expensive).
○ Sanitary Pad: external but similar to tampons (irritants, bad for the environment, expensive).
○ Menstrual panties: absorbent cloth/cotton pants with inner plastic lining. Less chemicals and reusable (washable).
○ Menstrual Cup: vaginal cup. Takes practice to insert, but more comfortable, no chemicals, has size & hardness types.
○ Menstrual sponge: only absorbs small quantities (eg first and last days). No chemicals, comfortable, easy insertion.
○ Male hygiene: under the prepuce dirt can accumulate if not washed regularly. Wash your hands before/after sex!
○ Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination is done at 12 in Spain (♀&♂). HPV is infectious and causes cervical cancer.
 Conceptives: methods to increase or decrease the probability of pregnancy.
Anticonceptive/contraceptive methods: only condoms protect against STDs - vital with casual sex!
○ Lubricant: helps penetration. Cheap ones can cause irritation. Water, oil or silicon-based - oils can break condoms.
○ Dental Dam: latex cloth used for protection during cunnilingus and anilingus.
○ Condom: covers penis(male condom)/vagina(femidom) in penetration. VERY effective AND protects from STDs.
○ Diaphragm: removable cup over the cervix used with spermicide cream. Doctor should assess what size to use.
○ Implant: hormonal rod under the skin for up to three years. Hormones have secondary effects (eg cancer).
○ IUD: rod put in uterus by a doctor, 10 years. 2 types: hormonal (secondary effects) and copper (no effects).
○ Morning After Pill: emergency pill for after pregnancy-probable sex (up to 5 days - better as soon as possible).
Avoids fertilising - does not cause an abortion. Severe secondary health effects so it should not be taken often.
○ Oral Daily Pill: hormonal, eliminates ovulation. Has secondary effects and can make periods more uncomfortable.
○ Contraceptive patch: hormonal skin sticker similar to the pill.
○ Mini-Pills: pills with only 1 hormone. Hormonal injection: same as pill but injected.
○ Vaginal ring: hormonal plastic ring in the vagina for 3 weeks. Similar to the pill.
○ Withdrawal: pulling the penis out of the vagina before ejaculation. The most unreliable.
○ Calendar method: abstinence during fertile days of the cycle. Irregular periods are common so very unreliable.
○ Surgery: closing fallopian tube♀/vas deferens♂ (not ovary/testicle removal - hormonal consequences). Irreversible.

Proconceptive methods:
○ Hormonal treatments: injections to promote ovulation plus intentional sex during fertile days.
○ IVF in-vitro fertilisation: hormonal treatment + syringe extraction of ovules from ovaries ⇒ fertilised in a lab with
sperm (from partner or donor) ⇒ reinserted in uterus. Only a percentage work depending on many factors.
Ovules/eggs can be frozen.
○ Surrogate mother: woman who gets pregnant, naturally or by IVF, with an arrangement to give the baby to other
people.
○ Adoption (legally becoming the parents of a child) or fostering (temporary). Strictly regulated by governments.
 Contraceptives

Pads
IUD Implant Injection Patch Daily pill Surgery

Pads Tampons Pads

Abstinence Condom Ring Diaphragm Sponge Femidom

Sponges
Spermicide Cervical cap Day after pill Withdrawal Calendar
Cups
Birth control pill (28 days) Pants Ibuprofen
and warm
Cups blankets
Hormones

Placebo

Conceptive methods

Hormonal
Adoption
therapy
Activity: Orgasm: peak pleasure
c
1. Label the missing items:
b creates sudden contractions
that push semen
(liquid+sperm) into the vagina
while the cervix pushes down
against the penis gland.
d
Ejaculation: when
contractions push semen
(liquid+sperm) into the
a
vagina.

f
Penis

Prepuce

g
Activity:
1. Fill the missing items:

a. Sexual physical activity, sexual proclaimed identity, sexual appearance and sexual social
behaviour are the four different aspects of sexuality in society, and all four can be different in
the same person.
b. The police number is 112, and the sexual abuse helpline in Spain is 016.
c. Cisgender: when identity is the same as the assigned sex at birth.
d. Bicurious is a person with undecided sexuality or who wants to explore other sexualities.
e. Fraysexuality is when a person has low sexual attraction due to trauma or stress.
f. Heteroflexibility: mainly heterosexual but homosexuality in certain situations or moments.
g. Gynephilia: attraction to feminine appearances (regardless of anatomy).
h. The age of consent or age at which the law in Spain considers a person legally old enough to
decide to have sex with another person is 16.
i. Erogenous area: part of the body that provides sexual pleasure.
j. Kink is a non-standard sexual activity, considered the opposite of “vanilla sex”.

2. Answer the questions:

a. Can a person change their sexual identity? Why?
○ Yes, gender identity is a label we apply to ourselves and we can choose it at will. No one
can enforce a label on us.
b. Is heteronormative a tolerant attitude? Why?
○ No, it makes assumptions about how people should identify (only female or male) and
behave (only accepts marital relations between females and males).
c. Which sexual practice involving internet is risky? Why?
○ Sexting: risky as photographs can circulated onto other people, and maybe the receiver
does not give consent - this would be a crime punishable by law.
 Activity:
1. Fill the missing items:

a. A Gynecologist is a medical doctor who specialises in female sexual and reproductive health.
b. The copper IUD is the only reversible, long term contraceptive without hormonal secondary
effects.
c. Morning after pill: contraceptive that can be taken shortly after sex, but which does not protect
from STDs and which has big secondary health effects so it should not be taken often.
d. Withdrawal: the most unreliable form of birth control which also does not protect against STDs.
e. Condoms: the only contraceptives that also protect against all STDs.
f. IVF in-vitro fertilisation: a method of obtaining ovules and sperm, fertilising them in a lab, and
reimplanting them in the uterus.
g. Menstrual cup, pants and sponges: three hygiene methods that do not have secondary health
effects and are reusable (better for the environment).

2. Answer the questions:

a. Give an example of an STD and describe it in one sentence.
○ (open question)

b. What do we call inability to get or maintain an erection of the penis? Is this a disease? Explain.
○ Called erectile dysfunction or impotence. It is a disease only if maintained over time.

c. Can a same person be considered a virgin by some people and not a virgin by others?
○ Yes. Virginity is a cultural idea, and can be defined in many ways by different people.

d. What three disadvantages do tampons and traditional sanitary towels have?

○ Expensive, bad for the environment, and secondary health effects (eg allergies, hormonal
alterations, cancerogenic substances, etc).
Activity: Orgasm: peak pleasure
1. Label the missing items:
creates sudden contractions
that push semen
(liquid+sperm) into the vagina
while the cervix pushes down
against the penis gland.
Ejaculation: when
contractions push semen
(liquid+sperm) into the
vagina.

Gland

Penis

Prepuce
Activity:
1. Fill the missing items:

a. Sexual physical activity, sexual proclaimed identity, sexual appearance and sexual social
behaviour are the four different aspects of sexuality in society, and all four can be different in
the same person.
b. The police number is 112, and the sexual abuse helpline in Spain is 016.
c. Cisgender: when identity is the same as the assigned sex at birth.
d. Bicurious is a person with undecided sexuality or who wants to explore other sexualities.
e. Fraysexuality is when a person has low sexual attraction due to trauma or stress.
f. Heteroflexibility: mainly heterosexual but homosexuality in certain situations or moments.
g. Gynephilia: attraction to feminine appearances (regardless of anatomy).
h. The age of consent or age at which the law in Spain considers a person legally old enough to
decide to have sex with another person is 16.
i. Erogenous area: part of the body that provides sexual pleasure.
j. Kink is a non-standard sexual activity, considered the opposite of “vanilla sex”.

2. Answer the questions:

a. Can a person change their sexual identity? Why?
○ Yes, gender identity is a label we apply to ourselves and we can choose it at will. No one
can enforce a label on us.
b. Is heteronormative a tolerant attitude? Why?
○ No, it makes assumptions about how people should identify (only female or male) and
behave (only accepts marital relations between females and males).
c. Which sexual practice involving internet is risky? Why?
○ Sexting: risky as photographs can circulated onto other people, and maybe the receiver
does not give consent - this would be a crime punishable by law.
 Activity:
1. Fill the missing items:

a. A Gynecologist is a medical doctor who specialises in female sexual and reproductive health.
b. The copper IUD is the only reversible, long term contraceptive without hormonal secondary
effects.
c. Morning after pill: contraceptive that can be taken shortly after sex, but which does not protect
from STDs and which has big secondary health effects so it should not be taken often.
d. Withdrawal: the most unreliable form of birth control which also does not protect against STDs.
e. Condoms: the only contraceptives that also protect against all STDs.
f. IVF in-vitro fertilisation: a method of obtaining ovules and sperm, fertilising them in a lab, and
reimplanting them in the uterus.
g. Menstrual cup, pants and sponges: three hygiene methods that do not have secondary health
effects and are reusable (better for the environment).

2. Answer the questions:

a. Give an example of an STD and describe it in one sentence.
○ (open question)

b. What do we call inability to get or maintain an erection of the penis? Is this a disease? Explain.
○ Called erectile dysfunction or impotence. It is a disease only if maintained over time.

c. Can a same person be considered a virgin by some people and not a virgin by others?
○ Yes. Virginity is a cultural idea, and can be defined in many ways by different people.

d. What three disadvantages do tampons and traditional sanitary towels have?

○ Expensive, bad for the environment, and secondary health effects (eg allergies, hormonal
alterations, cancerogenic substances, etc).