Busting Common Myths to Promote Inclusive Sex Positivity 👩‍❤️‍💋‍👨

Sex and sexuality are subjects that have been shrouded in myths and misconceptions for centuries. In this era of information and education, it's essential to debunk these myths and shed light on the realities of human sexual experience. To help us do just that, we have two experts, Gina Silvanasi, a sexuality and relationship educator, and Varuna, a physician and public health researcher. Together, they will address some common misconceptions about sex and sexuality. Gina Silvanasi gets right into it, saying, "No, absolutely not. Some women have a hymen, and some don't, but a broken hymen is not a definitive sign of virginity. Additionally, this myth neglects people with penises entirely. Why is this test only focused on those with vaginas?" Gina raises a crucial point, emphasizing that equating virginity with the presence or absence of a hymen is a damaging and outdated concept. She also calls out cases like rapper T.I., who famously admitted to taking his daughter to the gynecologist to check her hymen's intactness. Such practices contribute to a culture that promotes physical violence against people with vaginas. Furthermore, the belief that an intact hymen is an indicator of virginity is rooted in misinformation. Many women may have a fully intact hymen, which can lead to problems during menstruation due to the absence of an opening. Gina explains that the hymen is more of a vestigial organ that has little functional significance. Varuna points out, "This myth suggests that abstaining from sex can enhance athletic performance. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this idea. In fact, during the 2016 Rio Olympics, more than 450,000 condoms were distributed to athletes, which indicates that a lot of sex was happening among them. But that doesn't mean they weren't performing at their best in their respective sports." This myth is rooted in a sex-negative culture that attempts to discourage sexual activity. It's essential to recognize that sexual expression and athletic performance are not mutually exclusive. Gina Silvanasi humorously interjects, saying, "Your wallet is not a great place for condoms." She explains that condoms have expiration dates, and storing them in a wallet next to sharp objects or in a humid environment can damage them, making them less effective. Proper storage is crucial to ensure your protection during sexual activity.Varuna adds, "If you're planning a spontaneous encounter, it's better to keep a couple of condoms in your pocket rather than your wallet."Sex does indeed burn calories, but not to the extent that some might believe. Gina Silvanasi clarifies, "Depending on the kind of sex you're having, it can certainly burn calories. However, it's not the same as a rigorous workout like running a marathon. You might burn more than 100 calories in a single session of sex, but it's not a substitute for regular exercise."Varuna agrees and highlights the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle for overall health and fitness. Gina and Varuna emphasize that this belief is far from the truth. They argue that sex is not strictly binary, even in nature. Gina mentions that some plants, for example, have both male and female reproductive structures within the same flower. This myth has harmful consequences, particularly for intersex individuals who may undergo irreversible corrective surgeries based on the false premise that there are only two sexes. The experts advocate for a more inclusive understanding of human biology. Both experts debunk this myth, highlighting the scientific basis behind it. Gina and Varuna emphasize that STIs are transmitted through intimate contact, primarily between bodies. The bacteria responsible for STIs cannot survive on surfaces like toilet seats for extended periods. Gina raises the concern of stigmatizing individuals who have STIs and underlines the importance of informed consent and disclosure. Gina and Varuna emphasize the benefits of masturbation, including the release of endorphins and the development of a positive relationship with one's own body. They assert that masturbation is not harmful and can be an essential part of self-discovery and sexual expression. The experts clarify that vaginas are not permanently stretched with use. While the vaginal canal can accommodate various sizes, it retains its elasticity. Factors such as age, hormonal changes, and childbirth can influence vaginal elasticity, but it does not stretch permanently.