To refrain from having sex.

Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome

A disease caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) that weakens the immune system until it is unable to fight infection.

 Acrosome

The covering of the head of the sperm containing enzymes essential for fertilization.

Actual Failure Rate

The average failure rate of a contraceptive taking into account not only actual failure of the device but also human error and misuse.

Adrenogenital Syndrome

Also known as congenital adrenal hyperplasia. A genetic condition in which a female is born with genitals that look like a male's due to an abnormally functioning adrenal gland.  

Age of Consent

The age at which a person is legally capable of consenting to sexual interactions.

AIDS

An acronym for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome.

Alveoli

Glands that produce milk in the female breast.

Ambisexual

A contemporary term for bisexual.  

Amyl Nitrate

A drug that is inhaled to intensify orgasm. It is potentially very dangerous and is illegal to sell in many states.

Anal beads

A string of beads designed for anal insertion.

Anal plug

A sex toy with a flared base that is inserted into the anus during sex.

Anal Sex

Sexual behavior in which a man's penis penetrates his partners anus.

Anilingus

Stimulation of the anus with mouth and tongue.

Anaphrodisiac

A substance that decreases sexual desire.

Anatomical sex

The apparent gender of a person based on the appearance of their sexual organs.

Androgens

The male sex hormones. Actually produced by women as well in smaller amounts by the ovaries.

Androgyny

Possessing both masculine and feminine characteristics.

Anorgasmia

A sexual dysfunction in which an individual is unable to have orgasms. 

Anus

The opening of the rectum.

Aphrodisiac

A substance that allegedly induces an increased state of sexual desire.

Areola

The circle of darkened skin around the nipple of the breast.  

Asexual

Without sexual feelings, desires or qualities.

Atypical Sexual Behavior

Sexual activity that is not one of the more common activities.

Autoerotic Asphyxia

A form of sexual behavior in which the individual masturbates while depriving him or herself of oxygen through hanging, strangulation, or other means. This activity is incredibly dangerous and causes many inadvertent deaths each year.

Autoeroticism

Self satisfaction of sexual desire.  Feeling sexual about oneself.

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