Sexual self

SEXUAL SELF

is a part of yourself where you learn and understand your sexual development.

Secondary Sex Characteristics

are physical traits that develop during puberty and differentiate males from females. These characteristics are not directly involved in reproduction but serve as visual cues.

Deepening of the voice

This is due to the enlargement of the larynx.

Increased muscle mass

Testosterone stimulates muscle growth.

Growth of facial hair

Beard and moustache development.

Broadening of the shoulders

The shoulders become wider.

Adam’s apple

A visible protrusion on the neck.

Breast development

Enlargement of the mammary glands.

Widening of the hips

Preparation for childbirth.

Pubic and underarm hair

Growth of hair in these areas.

Menstruation

The shedding of the uterine lining.

Human Reproductive System

is a complex system responsible for producing offspring. It consists of two main parts: the male reproductive system and the female reproductive system.

Testes

Produce sperm and testosterone.

Scrotum

A sac that holds the testes.

Epididymis

Stores sperm.

Vas deferens

Carries sperm from the epididymis to the ejaculatory ducts.

Seminal vesicles

Produce fluid that nourishes and protects sperm.

Prostate gland

Produces fluid that helps to propel sperm.

Urethra

A tube that carries both urine and semen.

Penis

The male organ of sexual intercourse.

Ovaries

Produce eggs and hormones.

Fallopian tubes

Carry eggs from the ovaries to the uterus.

Uterus

A muscular organ that holds the developing fetus.

Vagina

The female organ of sexual intercourse.

Cervix

The lower part of the uterus.

Clitoris

A small, sensitive organ located at the front of the vagina.

Labia majora

The outer folds of skin that surround the vagina.

Labia minora

The inner folds of skin that surround the vagina.

Puberty

is the period of physical and sexual maturation that leads to the development of secondary sex characteristics and the ability to reproduce. It is triggered by hormonal changes.

Menstruation

is a monthly process in which the lining of the uterus is shed. It occurs when an egg is not fertilized. If an egg is fertilized, it implants in the uterine lining and begins to develop into a fetus.

Erogenous Zones

Areas of PleasureErogenous zones are areas of the body that are particularly sensitive to touch, pressure, or stimulation and can elicit a pleasurable or sexual response. These zones vary from person to person and can change over time.

Individual variation

Erogenous zones can vary greatly from person to person. What is pleasurable for one person may not be pleasurable for another.

Emotional state

Emotional factors can influence the sensitivity of erogenous zones. When a person is relaxed, aroused, or in love, they may be more sensitive to touch.

Past experiences

Past sexual experiences can affect the sensitivity of erogenous zones. Positive experiences can enhance sensitivity, while negative experiences can decrease it.

Excitement Phase: Arousal

Begins with stimuli that cause physical and emotional arousal. Blood flow increases, leading to erections in males and lubrication in females. Heart rate and muscle tension rise.

Orgasm Phase: Climax

Marked by intense pleasure and rhythmic muscle contractions in the genitals. Sexual tension is released, leading to a peak experience of pleasure.

Resolution Phase: Return to Normal

Testosterone

Key hormone for sexual desire in both sexes.

Estrogen & Progesterone

Regulate female sexual arousal and reproductive cycles.

Oxytocin

Enhances bonding and attachment, released during touch and orgasm.

Hypothalamus

Regulates sexual behavior and hormone release.

Limbic System

Cerebral Cortex

Handles sexual thoughts and fantasies.

Dopamine

Linked to pleasure and sexual motivation.

Serotonin

Influences mood and libido; high levels may reduce desire.

Norepinephrine

Increases arousal and physical response during sex.

Lust: Hormonal Drive

Fueled by testosterone and estrogen, driving sexual desire and reproductive behaviors.

Love: Romantic Feelings

Involves dopamine (pleasure) and norepinephrine (excitement). Lower serotonin levels contribute to obsessive feelings about a partner.

Attachment: Long-Term Bonds

Driven by oxytocin (closeness) and vasopressin (commitment). Creates emotional security and supports stable relationships.

Heterosexual

Sexual attraction and activity between people of different sexes.

Homosexual

Sexual attraction and activity between people of the same sex.

Bisexual

Sexual attraction to people of both sexes.

Transsexual

Individuals who have transitioned from their assigned sex at birth to a different gender identity.

Biological factors

Hormones, genetics, and brain structure.

Psychological factors

Personality traits, experiences, and beliefs.

Social and cultural factors

Societal attitudes, cultural norms, and personal relationships.

Chlamydia

A bacterial infection that often causes no symptoms, but can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women and infertility in both men and women.

Gonorrhea

A bacterial infection that can cause a burning sensation when urinating, a discharge from the genitals, and pain during sex.

Syphilis

A bacterial infection that is often divided into stages: primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary. Untreated syphilis can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease, blindness, and paralysis.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

A viral infection that attacks the immune system and can lead to Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). HIV is transmitted through blood, semen, vaginal secretions, and breast milk.

Genital herpes

A viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) that can cause painful sores on the genitals, buttocks, or thighs.

Human papillomavirus (HPV)

A viral infection that can cause genital warts and cervical cancer.

Trichomoniasis

A parasitic infection that can cause a foul-smelling discharge from the genitals, itching, and burning.

Transmission

STIs are primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including:💗Vaginal sex

💗Anal wsex, Oral sex

Contraception

refers to methods used to prevent pregnancy. There are two main categories of contraception: natural methods and artificial methods.

Cervical mucus method

This method involves observing changes in cervical mucus throughout your menstrual cycle. Cervical mucus becomes more slippery and clear during ovulation.

Rhythm method

This method involves tracking a woman’s menstrual cycle to predict her fertile period. It assumes that a woman’s ovulation occurs about 14 days before her next menstrual period.

Basal body temperature (BBT) method

This method involves taking your temperature every morning before getting out of bed. When you ovulate, your body temperature rises slightly.

Artificial Methods

are more reliable than natural methods and can be used by both men and women.

Barrier methods

These methods physically prevent sperm from reaching the egg. Examples include condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps.

Hormonal methods

These methods use hormones to prevent pregnancy. Examples include birth control pills, patches, injections, implants, and rings.

Intrauterine device (IUD)

This is a small, T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. IUDs can be hormonal or non-hormonal.

Sterilization

This is a permanent method of contraception that involves surgically preventing the production or release of sperm or eggs. Examples include vasectomy for men and tubal ligation for women.

Solitary Behavior

Activity refers to sexual behavior or actions conducted alone.

Limbic System

Processes emotions and sexual stimuli.

Resolution Phase: Return to Normal

The body gradually returns to its pre-arousal state. Males experience a refractory period, while females may have a sense of relaxation and may experience multiple orgasms.

Plateau Phase: Sustained Arousal

Physical changes intensify, with the body fully prepared for orgasm. In males, the erection is stable, and in females, the vaginal walls tighten.

Inner thighs

are often sensitive to touch and can be a source of pleasure. Gentle stroking or kissing the inner thighs can be stimulating.

Genitals

are the most obvious erogenous zones and are directly involved in sexual pleasure. Stimulation of the clitoris, penis, or scrotum can lead to intense pleasure and arousal.

Breasts

are often considered a primary erogenous zone for women. Gentle touching, massaging, or kissing the breasts can be highly pleasurable.

Nipples

are highly sensitive and can be stimulated in various ways, including pinching, twisting, or sucking.

Ears

are another sensitive area that can be easily aroused. Gentle touching, kissing, or licking the ears can be pleasurable.

Neck

especially the nape, is a sensitive area for many people. Gentle touching, kissing or massaging the neck can be stimulating.

Ears

are another sensitive area that can be easily aroused. Gentle touching, kissing, or licking the ears can be pleasurable.

Lips

are often considered a primary erogenous zone. Kissing, sucking, or licking the lips can be highly pleasurable.