Sex Myths For Women And Men

1. If a girl does not have a hymen does that mean she is not a virgin?
2. Can a girl get pregnant before she has her period?
3. Can a girl get pregnant the first time she has sex?
4. Can a woman get pregnant from anal sex?
5. Can a woman still get pregnant if a man does not ejaculate?
6. Does douching after sex prevent STDs or pregnancy?

Sex Myths For Women

1. If a girl does not have a hymen does that mean she is not a virgin?
Not at all! Many things can perforate the hymen before a girl decides to have sex. This might include extreme physical activity, masturbation, insertion of a tampon or other objects; and cycling or horseback riding. Typically when the tissue is ruptured it will produce a small amount of blood and slight discomfort. It’s important to have proper lubrication and mental readiness to minimize discomfort.

The hymen is a very thin tissue that covers the opening (introitus) of the vaginal canal. This is usually present at birth but can be absent. How thick the tissue is and the type of opening varies. Some hymens have two small openings (septate); one large opening (annular); several tiny openings (cribiform) or no opening at all (imperforate). Discovery of the imperforate hymen usually occurs from blocked menstrual flow. This is easily repaired by a simple surgical procedure.

Historically the hymen has symbolized virginity across most cultures. It’s well known that Lady Diana had to see a physician to prove her purity before marriage to Prince Charles. In many cultures women have to prove their purity by hanging a bloodied sheet outside after their wedding night. This continues to be important to women all over and a “hymen-plasty” is offered by many physicians despite the risks.

2. Can a girl get pregnant before she has her period?

YES! There are documented cases of young girls who have gotten pregnant before having their period. Girls often think it is safe to have sex because they have not ovulated. In certain cases a girl may have unprotected sex close enough to her first ovulation that conception may occur! Bottom line – why play roullette when proper use of condoms can prevent 98% of pregnancies!

3. Can a girl get pregnant the first time she has sex?

YES! This is more common than you think! Studies show 750,000 U.S. teenage girls between the ages of 15-19 become pregnant each year (Guttmacher, 2001). Girls mistakenly think it’s safe because they haven’t had sex and believe it couldn’t happen the first time. Once ovulation occurs conception is possible unless you are practicing abstinence or safer sex. Don’t fall prey to myths! Some boys have convinced girls that getting high on pot, showering, douching or pulling out will prevent pregnancy.

4. Can a woman get pregnant from anal sex?

Not likely, but technically possible in anal play – let me explain. Anatomically it’s important to understand anal sex occurs in the uriogenital tract (anus) and vaginal sex occurs in the reproductive tract (vaginal canal). Although close together, these are two totally seperate areas of the body. A man’s ejaculation cannot penetrate through the walls of the anus to impregnate a woman. The risk lies in activities associated with anal play…

Although it’s unlikely, it is possible that if ejaculation occurs and further anal/vaginal play occurs some semen could enter the vagina. Keep in mind every condition would have to be exact for just enough semen to get into the vagina! Bottom line – using a condom will prevent sperm from getting anywhere. Besides – vaginal play AFTER anal sex is NEVER recommended because it can cause infections. Wash up and use a new condom if you’re ready for more!

5. Can a woman still get pregnant if a man does not ejaculate?

YES! Men secrete what is called pre-ejaculatory fluid when the penis becomes erect. This clear fluid, which can contain sperm, comes from the Cowper’s glands and is released from the tip of the penis (urethral meatus). Men often can’t feel this and may not know when it occurs so even doing it “a little bit” before using a condom is risky!

6. Does douching after sex prevent STDs or pregnancy?

NO! As a matter of fact douching – inserting liquid into the vagina with pressure can actually push the semen further up into the canal. This actual increases the chance of pregnancy! The vaginal canal is a delicate environment and using water or other substances (detergents or carbonated beverages) can cause infection. Studies have not shown that douching prevent STDs or STIs, but does show it puts women` at greater risk for STDs.

Sex Myths for Men

1. Is it true that sitting in a hot tub effects a man’s sperm?

2. Are “blue balls” for real or do men just say that?

3. Only woman can have multiple orgasms.