Sex Myths Busted: Learn What's True and False

8 Common Sex Myths - What's True and What’s False?

Living in the age of instant information doesn’t guarantee accuracy. Sex-related myths have persisted for generations, creating harmful misconceptions that threaten safer sex practices. This misinformation not only decreases sexual pleasure but also increases the risk of developing sexual dysfunction.

We’ve got you covered, read on to discover everything you wish you’d learnt in the classroom about pre-sex rituals, during-sex concerns, and post-sex practices.

Pre-Sex Myths

Q: True or False: Douching is necessary to keep the vagina clean?

A: False!

In the United States, nearly one in five women aged 15 to 44 use douching as a method to clean their vaginas. Most doctors advise against douching, as it can disrupt the natural balance of vaginal flora and acidity.

Instead, opt for a safer alternative, which helps maintain a healthy, natural pH balance.

Q: True or False: The porn I watch is the kind of sex I want?

A: False!

Porn is primarily created for entertainment and fantasy rather than a “how-to” guide. It often features exaggerated scenarios and performances that may not align with real-life preferences or experiences. For instance, heterosexual porn is designed to attract and stimulate a penis owner, which might not appeal to women. Many straight women may find themselves aroused by lesbian porn, which is designed to appeal to vulva owners, despite not reflecting their actual sexual orientation or desires in relationships. While porn can be enjoyed for arousal and exploration, it may not represent the type of intimate connections or relationships you seek in reality. Enjoying your fantasies and understanding this distinction is helpful for maintaining healthy sexual expectations and fulfilling relationships.

During-Sex Myths

Q: True or False: You can’t get pregnant during your period?

A: False!

While it's less likely, it is still possible to get pregnant during your period. Sperm can live inside the female body for up to five days, and if you have a shorter menstrual cycle, ovulation could occur soon after your period ends, increasing the chances of pregnancy. If you have sex during your period, it’s a good idea to use a contraceptive - like a condom - to prevent pregnancy.

Q: True or False: You can get pregnant from pre-cum?

A: True!

Pre-cum is a lubricant produced by a gland in the penis and is released before ejaculation. While pre-cum itself doesn’t naturally contain sperm, sperm can leak into it periodically. Additionally, semen can linger in the urethra after ejaculation and mix with pre-cum on its way out. This means pregnancy is possible even if ejaculation doesn’t occur inside the vagina.

Q: True or False: Can certain foods change the way semen tastes? 

A: True-ish

Urban legend has it that certain fruits make semen taste sweeter. While there is no hard and fast medical research to back it up, it makes sense since food can affect the smell of your sweat, there is every chance they’d affect semen too. However, one thing that’s absolute fact: with one small wipe, you can change the way your partner’s penis tastes! 

Q: True or False: The bigger the penis, the better the sex?

A: False!

This is a common misconception, with porn and media leading the trend of “bigger is better” when in reality what matters is how you (or your partner) use your penis! Remember, sex is a mental as well as a physical act, and what truly matters is how partners communicate, connect, and engage during sexual activity. Remember to stimulate all erogenous zones and have fun experimenting until you find positions you both enjoy. 

Q: True or False: A woman is only turned on if she is wet?

A: FALSE! 

A woman's level of arousal does not solely depend on natural lubrication. While lubrication can be a physiological response to arousal, it doesn't always correlate with how aroused a woman feels. Many factors, such as stress, medications, hormonal changes, and emotional state, can affect vaginal lubrication. It's perfectly normal for a woman to be fully aroused but not lubricated. Keeping a lubricant handy in your bedside drawer can enhance comfort and pleasure during sex, regardless of natural lubrication levels.

Post-Sex Myths

Q: True or False: You should always pee straight after sex?

A: TRUE!

This is a simple and effective way to maintain urinary tract health after sexual activity. Peeing after sex is an effective way of flushing bacteria out of your urethra - which can help to prevent UTIs. So try going to the bathroom right after you’ve had sex, even if you don’t feel like you need to. While it may not sound very romantic to leap up and rush to the bathroom, your bladder will thank you! 

Q: True or False: Having sex helps you fall asleep faster?

A: TRUE!

Having sex can promote relaxation and release hormones such as oxytocin and endorphins, especially if you've had an orgasm. Oxytocin, often called the "love hormone," promotes feelings of bonding and relaxation, while endorphins act as natural painkillers and mood enhancers. These hormones can contribute to a sense of calmness and satisfaction, which may help facilitate falling asleep more quickly after sexual activity.

Now that you're equipped with accurate information to navigate your sexuality more confidently, keep the conversation going and continue learning about your body and sexual health. Stay curious, stay safe, and enjoy the pleasures that come with understanding and embracing the truth about sex.