Let’s talk about sex. Let’s talk about oral sex, anal sex, group sex, penetrative sex and everything in between. Newsflash: it’s 2017. Talking about sex isn’t taboo anymore, or at least it shouldn’t be.
Sexuality is a beautiful, empowering part of humanity. It makes us feel good, emotionally and physically. It’s a way to express our love for someone else, or even a way to spend a fun night with someone new. Being sexually active shouldn’t be looked down upon. It’s not dirty or shameful. Human bodies are incredible, complex systems that can do amazing things.
Between 2011 to 2015, the National Survey of Family Growth showed that 42.4 percent of female teenagers and 44.2 percent of male teenagers reported that they have engaged in sexual intercourse at least once. This news should not be shocking considering that sex is a very normal activity that should be enjoyed.
Being open about sexual experiences can be very beneficial not only to yourself but also to others. A lot of young adults are surprisingly uneducated when it comes to sex. There are so many problems that can arise from being sexually active. Sexually transmitted diseases, genital issues, pregnancy and more. There are also many conditions that women and men can have that make sex unenjoyable or painful. Being open and conversing about these things allow for growth and understanding making people feel less lonely.
Hiding your sexual activity can be harmful to your own health. For instance, I was in pain for over a year and had no idea why. After deciding to speak up and not be ashamed of my experiences, I went to the doctor. After being diagnosed with ovarian cysts and being treated for another serious issue, I realized that if I had stayed quiet I could have developed even more serious, potentially life-threatening issues.
Sex should be something you can openly talk about to your parents or guardians if you so desire. To some, it already is a welcomed topic at the dinner table, but for others this isn’t the case. So many young adults keep their sexual life hidden from others for reasons such as being worried about what others think or what their parents will say. Sex is natural part of life.
Your sexual experiences are not something to be afraid of. If anyone personally does not wish to disclose their private sexual experiences with others, then that is completely and entirely up to the individual. However, if you stay silent for reasons concerning other people, you are holding yourself back.
Every single person on this Earth are created by sexual intercourse. Considering we would not even be here without sex, it is crazy to hide our sexual experiences with each other.
When I say “share sexual experiences,” I don’t mean I want everyone to walk around outside screaming about their random hookup from the previous night, unless you want to, then more power to you. When I say “share sexual experiences” I mean talk to your partner, talk to your friends, talk to someone. Ask questions, be curious, attend to your bodies needs. Be in tune with your pain, your pleasures and your body in general. Do what you want without being ashamed or embarrassed. I can assure you that no matter how weird you think something is, a million people have already done it or thought about doing it.
Whatever sex is for you, enjoy it, love it and embrace it. Our bodies are amazing and deserve to be appreciated.
Casey Pimentel is a 19-year-old mass communication sophomore from The Woodlands, Texas.
