What’s the difference between abstinence and celibacy?

— Many young people are abstaining from sex and call themselves celibate. But what’s the difference between abstinence vs celibacy? By Daryl Austin Once thought to be largely motivated by religious beliefs, celibacy has become a popular way for people to reconnect with themselves, gain control over sexual desires and find more meaningful relationships. Some …

Let’s talk about sex — and repression — in America

— “Fierce Desires,” by Rebecca L. Davis, is a wide-ranging survey of how Americans have thought about and practiced and policed sex By Becca Rothfeld Clashes over sexual morality in America are, in large part, about what is new and what is old. Is premarital intrigue a timeless natural indulgence, or is it a byproduct …

What doctors wish patients knew about pain during sex

By Sara Berg, MS Experiencing pain during or immediately after sexual activity—known as dyspareunia—is a condition affecting many women, yet it remains a topic often shrouded in silence. This medical issue, which can affect both physical and emotional well-being, is more common than many may realize. Understanding and addressing this condition is crucial for promoting …

How a survey of over 2,000 women in the 1920s changed the way Americans thought about female sexuality

In the 1920s, many women became more comfortable in their skin. But the facts of life remained in short supply. By Anya Jabour American women still have fewer orgasms than men, according to new research that suggests that decades after the sexual revolution, the “orgasm gap” is still very much in effect. One of the …