Hi there! Welcome to Pillow Talks, a space where we do not only just talk about sex but also about pleasure, consent, identities, relationships and so much more! All whilst celebrating all bodies and identities. Our goal is to include, nurture and create a space where you feel safe and comfortable to learn of any topic you would like. It is your right to do so, and we hope to give you that opportunity. Feel free to navigate the space however you like, there is no right or wrong way of doing so. We would like you to move through the space in whichever way feels comfortable and best suits you. Click, scroll or hover on anything you like, that is the fun of it discovering and learning as you go.
The process of menstruation stops due to hormonal changes, usually between the ages of 45-55. However, it can happen earlier as a result of certain medical conditions (Parenthood, 2021).
An understanding of ourselves on a sexual level, our identity in relation to the genders(s) we are attracted to (Network, 2013).
Sexual dysfunction is when one has trouble having or enjoying sex and becomes bothersome. Since sex is an important part of our health and quality of life, this can affect us both physically and emotionally. However, they are very common and treatable! (Parenthood, 2021) In this section we will discuss the causes, treatments and the different types of dysfunctions.
Sexual Dysfunction - Planned Parenthood
Read article here
When something or someone causes trouble or difficulty (Oxford, 2021).
How many of us out there are having great sex?
The action of engaging in sexual intercourse or activities with another individual(s), such as oral, vaginal or anal sex, masturbating alone or with a partner, kissing, body rubbing, using sex toys, phone sex or “sexting” or watching porn (Parenthood, 2021). The following section will provide information on these activities and how we can all experience it differently and that is completely okay!
How do I talk to my partner about sex?
- Planned Parenthood
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Man to Man: On Sex, Masculinity, and Being Yourself - Scarleteen
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Sex and Pleasure
- Planned Parenthood
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No Big Deal: Sex & Disability
- Scarleteen
Read article here
Sex involving the mouth and genitals, including cunnilingus, anilingus, and fellatio (Parenthood, 2021).
Sex where a penis, fingers or a sex toy
enters a vagina (Parenthood, 2021).
Sex in which a penis, fingers or a sex toy goes into the anus
(Parenthood, 2021).
Touching one’s own body/genitals for sexual pleasure (Parenthood, 2021).
When it comes to relationships, is it smarter to follow your heart or your head?
Relationships can take various forms: friendships, romantic or work-related relationships, and are an integral part of our lives. Unfortunately, they are not always easy, no two relationships are the exact same, however learning how to communicate the way we feel and what is considered to be unhealthy is important (Parenthood, 2021). The content we have collected for you touches upon the following for all bodies and sexualities: how can I have a good relationship? What makes a relationship unhealthy? What is sexual and reproductive control? How should I end a relationship?
Relationships - Planned Parenthood
Read article here
Hi, Bi Guy: Coming Out to Your Girlfriend
- Scarleteen
Read article here
Navigating Dating Beyond the Binary
- Scarleteen
Read article here
Staying Seen: Being Bi in Relationships with Straight People
- Scarleteen
Read article here
The Unholy Din of First Dates for Someone With Autism (And How To Avoid It)
- Scarleteen
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Embracing Newbiehood: How to Approach Dating and Sex in Your 20s With Little or No Experience - Scarleteen
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A First Polyamory Guide - Scarleteen
Read article here
Dating and Gender Roles when One Partner is Trans - Scarleteen
Read article here
Getting Through a Breakup Without Actually Breaking - Scarleteen
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Disability and Dating: I'm Sexy, Seated, and Single Forever - Scarleteen
Read article here
Are we willing to believe anything to date?
How can we date comfortably and safely during times of a pandemic? What are the impacts on the hook-up culture? Remember, it is not wrong to want to put an extra set of boundaries in place, before you decided to go on a date or have sex with someone! Yet also, some of the content we have found, introduces the concept how being single during these hard times can actually be surprisingly empowering.
Hookup Culture and the Impact of COVID-19: An interview with Lisa Wade, PhD
- Scarleteen
Read artcile here
Being Single During Lockdown: A Surprisingly Empowering Experience
- Scarleteen
Read article here
Dating During the Pandemic: Tips for Young People Who Are Living at Home
- Scarleteen
Read article here
An object used to increase sexual pleasure (Cambridge, 2021).
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
An outbreak of a disease occurring over a wide geographic area, such as multiple countries or continents. Typically affecting a significant percentage of the population (Webster, 2021). A recent example of this is the Corona virus (COVID-19).
Sexual rights and reproductive rights are embedded within basic human rights. They are as equally important as the right to live, health and liberty; and therefore, are related to one another. We are all diverse and we all have the same right to live sexuality to its fullest. (Gob, 2021). Would like to know more? Explore the sources below!
Different ways of living sexuality
- Argentina Health Ministry
Read article here
Sexual and reproductive rights
- Argentina Health Ministry
Read article here
Decide when, how and with whom to engage in sexual activities, live sexuality free of pressures or violence, respect all sexual orientations and gender identities, have access to information and enjoy our bodies and intimacy with others (Gob, 2021).
Decide independent and free of discrimination whether or not to have children, with whom, how many and how often. As well as having access to free contraceptive knowledge and of the chosen method. Equally considering the access to the termination of pregnancy, pregnancy care, childbirth, post birth (Gob, 2021).
SEXUALLY
Infections that are passed from one person to another during vaginal, anal, or oral sex, or sexual skin-to-skin contact (Parenthood, 2021).
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
A pear-shaped, reproductive organ from where individuals menstruate, and pregnancy develops. Also known as a womb (Parenthood, 2021).
To want something or someone strongly and passionately
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
The feeling of being turned on sexually, experiencing physical and emotional changes (Parenthood, 2021).
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
The peak of sexual arousal, when all muscles that were tightened relax, usually causing a very pleasurable feeling (Parenthood, 2021).
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
External sex and internal reproductive organs, such as the vulva, penis or the scrotum (Parenthood, 2021).
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec
When does it stop being fun and starts being scary?
Consent is an agreement made before being sexual with someone to participate in any sexual activity. You need to make sure they would like to be sexual with you too. It is important that every time both people agree for it to be consensual. If not, any activity can be considered sexual assault (Parenthood, 2021). So most importantly, how do we talk about consent?
Sexual Consent - Planned Parenthood
Read article here
Consenting with a Non-verbal Partner
- Scarleteen
Read artcile here
How do I talk about Consent?
- Planned Parenthood
Read artcile here
Oral, vaginal or anal sex, masturbating alone or with a partner, kissing, body rubbing, using sex toys, phone sex or “sexting” or watching porn (Parenthood, 2021).
A willing agreement of all people involved
The use of force or coercion, physical or psychological, to make a person engage in sexual activity against their own will (Parenthood, 2021).
How often is normal?
Masturbating is completely normal, and we should embrace it! Since it has many health benefits. Whether you are sexually active or not, it includes touching one’s own body/genitals for sexual pleasure (Parenthood, 2021). Here we will discuss what masturbation is and the various health benefits it can have.
Going Solo: The Basics of Masturbation
- Scarleteen
Read article here
Masturbation - Planned Parenthood
Read articl here
How Do You Masturbate?
- Scarleteen
Read article here
Involves being engaged in a variety of sexual acts: oral, vaginal or anal sex, masturbating alone or with a partner, kissing, body rubbing, using sex toys, phone sex or “sexting” or watching porn (Parenthood, 2021).
Also known as arousal, it is the feeling of being sexually turned on and you experience physical and emotional changes (Parenthood, 2021).
Having any kind of sexual activity that does not involve a contraceptive method to prevent pregnancy or STDs.
WHAT SHOULD I DO?
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, you should know that you are not alone. A range of supportive resources is available for survivors and those close to them, to help through the unpleasant experience (Parenthood, 2021). This section will cover what you should do if you have been the victim and how can you support someone.
Advice from an Abuse Survivor
- Scarleteen
Read article here
What should I do if I or someone I know was sexually assaulted?
- Planned Parenthood
Read artcile here
A situation which prevents you from deciding freely about your sexuality, through threats, insults, pressure or the use of physical force (Gob, 2021).
Inhumane treatment prior, during or post childbirth or cesarean section. Yet also when abortions are not dealt with in time, improper quality of the treatment or not done in confidentiality (Gob, 2021).
REPRODUCTIVE
FREEDOM VIOLENCE
The prevention of allowing someone to decide whether or not to have children, with whom to have them, number and space between pregnancies
(Gob, 2021).
Violence can show up in many ways and it is important to be aware and identify them, to be able to act upon it and receive the needed help. Such types of violence that we will look at relevant to sex education, involve sexual, obstetric and
reproductive
freedom violence.
Sexual Assault Exam: An Insiders Guide
- Scarleteen
Read artcile here
Violence-free Sexuality
- Argentina Health Ministry
Read artcile here
The feeling of being turned on sexually, experiencing physical and emotional changes (Parenthood, 2021).
The peak of sexual arousal, when all muscles that were tightened during sexual arousal relax, usually causing a very pleasurable feeling
(Parenthood, 2021).
An object used to increase sexual pleasure (Cambridge, 2021).
To want something or someone strongly and passionately
(Cambridge, 2021).
A safe and effective method to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. There are two options: a pill of a single dose made from hormones or the copper IUD (Parenthood, 2021).
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
Biological chemicals that cause changes in our bodies and brains, but can also be made in a lab
(Parenthood, 2021).
An injection you get every 3 months and is a safe, convenient and private birth control method that is effective if you always get it on time (Parenthood, 2021).
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
A common condition where the endometrium begins to grow outside of the uterus rather than on the inside (Parenthood, 2021). It can cause a lot of pain but thankfully can be treated. Read on to find out more!
Endometriosis - Planned Parenthood
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Pelvis Problems: Endometriosis
- Scarleteen
Read article
Endometriosis - Why You Shouldn't Ignore Severe Period Pains - Planned Parenthood
Read article
Inability to become or cause a pregnancy, not being able to reproduce (Parenthood, 2021).
Ongoing and long-lasting pain
(Clinic, 2021).
External sex organs that include the clitoris, labia (majora and minora), opening to the vagina (introitus), opening to the urethra and two Bartholin’s glands (Parenthood, 2021).
The reproductive and sexual anatomies include our genitals and internal sex and reproductive organs, and everyone’s looks a little bit different and that is completely normal (Parenthood, 2021)!
Sexual and Reproductive Anatomy
- Planned Parenthood
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With Pleasure: A View of Whole Sexual Anatomy for Every Body - Scarleteen
Read article here
How to Reconnect With Your Body In Spite of the Impact of White Supremacy
- Scarleteen
Read article here
Let's Talk About Girldick - Scarleteen
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Sick, Sexy, and Disabled - Scarleteen
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A Foreskin Foray: Questions, Concerns & Clarifications - Scarleteen
Read article here
Pussypedia - Scarleteen
Read article here
An infection affecting your urinary system, most commonly seen in individuals who have a vulva. It can be quite uncomfortable as you could experience a burning sensation when and when not peeing. We have provided some content that will help you avoid them and what to do in the case that you have gotten one.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
- Planned Parenthood
Read article here
A system in our bodies that filters blood and creates urine as a waste
by-product, which includes the kidneys, renal pelvis, ureters, bladder and urethra (Hopkins, 2021).
Growths in the uterus that are normally not dangerous, but can cause a lot of pain, heavy bleeding and infertility. The good news is that there are many different ways to treat and manage the symptoms they may cause (Parenthood, 2021). Here we will discuss: what are they? Who’s at risk? What causes them to grow? What are the symptoms? How do I know if I have them? What are the available treatments?
Uterine Fibroids - Planned Parenthood
Read article here
The lining of the uterus that grows monthly in order for a fertilized egg to grow and implant itself in. If there is no fertilized egg or implantation, the lining will shed during your period (Parenthood, 2021).
Erotic excitement (Parenthood, 2021).
Also known as PCOS, it’s a condition that all we know about is that it’s caused by hormone imbalances, high amounts of androgens and insulin. Which can cause the inability to release an egg from the ovaries, leading to irregular periods, ovarian cysts, trouble getting pregnant, etc. (Parenthood, 2021).
Hormones that stimulates the development of the male genitalia in the womb and secondary male sex characteristic during puberty. The testicles produce large amounts of it, whereas ovaries produce small amounts. The most common one: testosterone (Parenthood, 2021).
A hormone in our bodies that controls sugar levels in our blood
(Cambridge, 2021).
Two organs that store and release eggs, and also produce hormones such as estrogen, progesterone and testosterone (Parenthood, 2021).
A cellular growth on an ovary that are usually benign (not cancerous), that may cause belly pain or irregular period and may require treatment, but it can also go away on its own (Parenthood, 2021).
Pleasure is an important part of our sexual lifestyles, and we hope that Pillow Talks will provide you with information that shows you how to prioritize it in your sex life and how at the end of the day, becomes a celebration and enjoyment of our bodies. Within this section you can find content on arousal, orgasms, sex toys and desire!
Arousal - Planned Parenthood
Read article here
I Feel Good: Pleasure and Fulfillment
- Scarleteen
Read article here
Orgasms - Planned Parenthood
Read article here
How To Have Your First Orgasm: A Primer for Cisgender Women - Scarleteen
Read article here
Sex Toys - Planned Parenthood
Read article here
Desire - Planned Parenthood
Read article here
Can sex be safe?
Contraceptive methods or birth control, are used to avoid or reduce the chances of pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases when participating in sexual activities (Gob, 2021). Here we will give a wide range of examples of different types of contraception that are available to us and how they work. Remember there is not right or wrong and you should discuss with your doctor which method best works for you!
All the Barriers! All the Time! - Scarleteen
Read article here
Love the Glove: 10 Reasons to Use Condoms You Might Not Have Heard Yet - Scarleteen Read article here
10 common Myths, Misunderstandings and Big Ol' Lies About Emergency Contraception - Scarleteen
Read article here
Birth Control Bingo: Emergency Contraception - Scarleteen
Read article here
Also known as STDs, they are infections spread from one person to another through sexual contact (vaginal, anal and oral sex). They are very common, and many people may not even experience any symptoms at all. Testing and treatment are easily done! However, if they are left untreated, they could lead to serious health issues (Parenthood, 2021). Here, we will provide content on the different types of STDs, how they are transmitted, their possible symptoms and how they can be treated.
The following page covers the topics of both menstruation and menopause, two processes that individuals with female reproductive systems will experience. You will be able to find information on what both of these processes are, what you could experience and a guidance on how to use different menstrual objects.
Menstruation - Planned Parenthood
Read article here
Menopause - Planned Parenthood
Read article here
M.I.A or, Dude, Where's My Period?
- Scarleteen
Read article here
On the Rag: A Guide to Menstruation
- Scarleteen
Read article here
What Are Menstrual Cups? - Scarleteen
Read article here
Eight Myths About Washable Menstrual Pads Dispelled - Scarleteen
Read article here
Also known as PID, it sadly is a serious infection caused by untreated STDs causing infertility and chronic pain (Parenthood, 2021). So how do we treat and get tested for PID? The content below will guide you in all you need to know about it!
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
- Planned Parenthood
Read article here
A little soft silicone, cup-shaped like a sailor’s hat that is placed deep inside the vagina to cover the cervix (Parenthood, 2021).
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
The flow of blood, fluid and tissue out of the uterus and through the vagina, lasting usually between 3 to 7 days. Also known as a period
(Parenthood, 2021).
A reproductive cell that combines with an egg to cause a pregnancy and is made in the testes (balls)
(Parenthood, 2021).
A safe and convenient method that works really well if it is used correctly. You can place it on certain parts of your body that releases hormones through your skin to prevent pregnancy and has many other health benefits too! (Parenthood, 2021)
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
A stretchy passage connecting the vulva with the cervix and uterus, where menstruation or a baby comes out of the body or where sexual penetration (by a penis, finger, sex toy, etc.) can happen. During menstruation this is where a tampon or menstrual cup is placed (Parenthood, 2021).
The narrow, lower part of the uterus that has a small opening that connects the uterus to the vagina
(Parenthood, 2021).
A medicine that contains hormones, that is taken once daily. It is safe, affordable and effective, if taken you always take your pill on time. There are 2 types of pills: the combination pill which is the most common one and contains 2 different hormones, or the mini pill that contain only 1 hormone (Parenthood, 2021).
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
Narrow tubes that carry an egg from the ovary to the uterus during ovulation (Parenthood, 2021).
Also known as “getting your tubes tied”, is a surgery that permanently closes, cuts or removes pieces of the fallopian tubes to prevent pregnancy (Parenthood, 2021)..
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
The sac of skin that holds and protects the testicles (balls) and is located behind and underneath the penis (Parenthood, 2021).
A small, round sponge made of a soft squishy plastic, it is placed deep inside the vagina before sex and covers the cervix. It contains spermicides to help prevent pregnancy and each sponge has a fabric loop attached to it, to be easily removed (Parenthood, 2021).
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
A tiny, thin rod that releases hormones into your body that prevents pregnancy. It is placed inside the arm and lasts for 5 years! (Parenthood, 2021)
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
The opening from the rectum (butt) where solid waste (poop) leaves the body (Parenthood, 2021).
Fluid containing sperm that is released from the penis during an orgasm (Parenthood, 2021).
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
An over-the-counter gel that has chemicals to stop sperm from reaching an egg, it is put inside the vagina before sex.
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
An over-the-counter gel that has chemicals to stop sperm from reaching an egg, it is put inside the vagina before sex (Parenthood, 2021).
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
Sexuality is about your sexual feelings, thoughts, attractions and behaviours towards other people. You can find other people physically, sexually or emotionally attractive
Human sexuality is the way people experience and express themselves sexually. This involves biological, erotic, physical, emotional, social, or spiritual feelings
