Vaginal Sex

Screwing. Doing it. No matter what you call it, vaginal sex is healthy and normal. It can be a good way to share pleasure, but not everyone is into it.

What is vaginal sex?

• Vaginal sex is when something is put into a vagina*, usually a penis*, fingers, or sex toy.

Does vaginal sex hurt?

• Vaginal sex may be uncomfortable the first time, but it should not continue to hurt if you are moving at a comfortable pace, using lube if necessary and have a sexual partner you can talk to.

Will vaginal sex expose me to any STIs?

• Yes, you can be exposed to STIs during vaginal sex.
• By using a condom you can help protect yourself against STIs.
• If you are using a sex toy for vaginal sex, remember to wash it or put a new condom on it before sharing it between partners or between yourself and a partner.
• For more information on STIs and how to reduce your risk, check out our info section[Link].

How can I protect myself or my partner from pregnancy?

• If you are having vaginal sex with a penis, there is a possibility of pregnancy.
• There are many ways to protect against unplanned pregnancy, including external condoms [Link] and internal condoms [Link].
• You can also use a hormonal method of birth control (e.g. pill, patch, ring, IUD) or a non-hormonal method (IUD, sponge, VCF, FAM, etc.).
• For more on how pregnancy happens and how to prevent it, check out the Pregnancy section [Link].

How can I make the most of vaginal sex?

• Start slow if you can. Spend time kissing, caressing and talking to each other so the vagina can get turned on and moist.
• When you are both ready to try something inside the vagina, start with small toys or body parts until you and your partner feel ready moving on to something bigger.
• Take your time. Relax, breathe and be patient.
• If the vagina seems dry, use a water-based lubricant (oil-based lubricants can break down latex condoms).

Useful Tips

Don’t ever put a toy or body part into anyone’s vagina that has been used in anyone’s butt without washing or putting a new condom on it first. Moving bacteria from the butt into the vagina can cause an infection. Talk with your partner before vaginal sex and find out what you are each looking for. During vaginal sex, talk to your partner about what feels good and what doesn’t.

If you have questions about this topic, feel free to contact one of our peer educators. [Link]

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*We know that these aren’t the words everyone uses for their bodies (eg. trans folks), and support you using the language that feels best for you.

Last Edited: May 2020