ASHA remains an independent, unbiased source of information on sexual health. We are guided by science, not ideology. READ MORE.
ASHA remains an independent, unbiased source of information on sexual health. We are guided by science, not ideology. READ MORE.

Could Monkeys’ Behavior Explain Why Men Masturbate?

Tissues used after a person masturbates

A new paper suggests that there are biological and evolutionary reasons that we masturbate and looks to our ape ancestors for evidence. There is evidence starting around 40 million years ago that the ancestors of all monkeys and apes did indeed masturbate.

Sexual Pleasure and You

Two women embrace in bed

Whether we’re attracted to the opposite gender, the same gender or both, the truth is: We learn how to experience sexual pleasure for pleasure’s sake by understanding our own sexual desires and responses.

Understanding Consent

a happy couple

Consent is an agreement that is willfully given without any external pressure or factors. In order for someone to consent to sexual activity participants must continuously communicate—before, during, and after sexual activity.

Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD)

A woman crossing her arms across her chest

Sometimes you want sex, sometimes you don’t. That’s normal. Every woman has her own level of what is considered “normal” based on their own experiences and biology.

Dyspareunia—When Sex Hurts

A woman with her arms wrapped around her knees

Sex shouldn’t hurt…But sometimes it does. Between 10% and 20% of women in the U.S. experience persistent pain during sex—a condition referred to as dyspareunia.

Orgasmic Disorder

Woman in bed with a pillow over her face

For some women, reaching orgasm can be difficult. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to address the problem and have a more satisfying sex life.

Sexual Arousal Disorder

A forlorn woman in bed next to her male partner

When a woman becomes sexually aroused, her body will respond with physical and emotional changes. For some women, though, this arousal response doesn’t happen as expected. The desire may be there, but the body or the mind (or both) don’t respond.