5 Things Getting In The Way Of Black Women’s Sex Lives

By Ashley Townes, Ph.D., MPH Like many other aspects of our society, sexuality education in the United States often reflects majority populations—i.e., white experiences. While there’s been some research dedicated to understanding the sexual lives of Black women, much of it focuses on identifying what types of sexual behaviors they’re engaging in, messages of risk …

Exploring the common misconceptions regarding trans and non-binary identities

Eight reasons why anti-trans rants are unscientific. By Hannah Seo Last month, a series of anti-trans tweets by author J.K. Rowling incited a maelstrom of anger, pain, and indignation. Specifically, Rowling opposed the phrase “people who menstruate” in an article, commenting on the social media platform, “I’m sure there used to be a word for …

LGBTQI+ populations face unique challenges during pandemic

Global conversations about the impact of the pandemic on gender equality have left out sexual and gender minorities. COVID-19 is a threat multiplier. By Yvonne Su, Yuriko Cowper-Smith, Tyler Valiquette As global leaders begin to recognize the inequalities that are being exposed as a result of COVID-19, it is important to consider who is included …

How to Find a Sex-Positive Therapist

Some therapists advertising kink- and polyamory-friendly treatment might not be all they seem. Here’s what to look for if you’re seeking mental healthcare that doesn’t see “sexual deviance” as deviance. by Penda N’Diaye Layla, a 30ish queer sub who enjoys domination by her partners—her name has been changed for her privacy—has been in therapy for …

How Using Safe Words Helped Me Reclaim My Sexuality After Trauma

Determining safe words with your partner can create a healthy, loving space. By By Ashley Oken There are sexual experiences that can strip you of believing you have bodily autonomy, feeling safe in your own body, especially during sexual encounters. These leave you feeling powerless over your own sexuality. It could be through sexual violence, …

The ‘Keep It Real Online’ campaign wants parents to talk to kids about porn — but where to start?

By Tracy Clelland The hugely successful “Keep It Real Online” video aimed at getting parents to talk to their children about pornography has gone viral and been praised around the world. But my 16-year-old son asked an interesting question when he looked at the campaign website: Why does it say talk “to” your child? Shouldn’t …

Cybersex, erotic tech and virtual intimacy are on the rise during COVID-19

By Simon Dubé , Dave Anctil & Maria Santaguida The coronavirus pandemic is affecting sexuality and relationships. The confinement and social distancing measures protecting us are unintentionally exacerbating intimacy-related difficulties and limiting people’s access to partners. For some, COVID-19 is synonymous with loneliness and relationship stress. Many people end up choosing between intimacy and security. …