Sexual contact

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Sexual contact refers to the act of engaging in sexual activities that involve physical contact between individuals. This can include a wide range of activities, from kissing and touching to sexual intercourse. Sexual contact can occur between individuals of the same or different genders.

Types of Sexual Contact[edit | edit source]

There are several types of sexual contact, including but not limited to:

  • Kissing: This is a form of sexual contact that involves the lips of one person touching the lips or body of another person.
  • Touching: This involves one person touching the body of another person with their hands or other parts of their body.
  • Sexual intercourse: This is a form of sexual contact that involves penetration of the vagina, anus, or mouth by the penis.

Health Risks Associated with Sexual Contact[edit | edit source]

Engaging in sexual contact can lead to various health risks, including:

  • Sexually transmitted infections (STIs): These are infections that are spread primarily through sexual contact.
  • Unintended pregnancy: This can occur if contraception is not used or fails during sexual intercourse.
  • Mental health issues: Some individuals may experience mental health issues such as anxiety or depression as a result of engaging in sexual contact, particularly if the contact was non-consensual.

Prevention of Health Risks[edit | edit source]

There are several ways to prevent the health risks associated with sexual contact, including:

  • Condom use: Using a condom during sexual intercourse can significantly reduce the risk of STIs and unintended pregnancy.
  • Regular STI testing: Regular testing for STIs can help to detect infections early and prevent their spread.
  • Consent: Ensuring that all sexual contact is consensual can help to prevent mental health issues associated with non-consensual sexual contact.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Sexual contact Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD