20 Sex Positive Examples (Fully Explained)

Everything you need to know about sex positivity

Christopher Kokoski
RelationshipFire

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Close up of cartoon woman’s face — sex positive examples
Image created by the Author via DALL-E and Canva

Society’s lenses are becoming clearer, and our narratives more open, particularly when it comes to talking about sex.

It’s a wonderful, messy evolution that involves shifting the discourse around sex from shame and taboo to acceptance and affirmation. In a word (or two), it’s about being sex-positive.

If you’re wondering what that means, here are 20 sex positive examples.

What Is Being Sex Positive?

Picture this: You’re driving down the road of life and you come across a fork — a rather crucial one at that. Down one path is fear, taboo, and stigma, down the other, acceptance, openness, and positivity.

Choosing the latter, dear reader, is the essence of being sex-positive.

In simple terms, being sex-positive means having a healthy, non-judgmental attitude towards sex and sexual activities.

It’s about acknowledging that sex is a natural part of the human experience and celebrating it in all its forms, as long as they involve consenting adults. It’s about making your own sexual choices, embracing them, and respecting the choices of others.

It’s also about understanding and acknowledging the complexity of sexuality and gender identities. Buckle up as we traverse the diverse landscape of sex positivity with a splash of humor, a dose of empathy, and a lot of love.

Here is a good video that also explains sex positivity:

YouTube Video by Dr. Liz Powell: Credit

Sex Positive Examples

Without further ado, let’s get into the 20 sex-positive examples.

1. Consent Is Sexy

First up on our list is the bedrock of sex positivity: Consent. It’s simple, really. If all parties involved enthusiastically say “Yes!”, then it’s a green light.

If there’s any doubt, ambiguity, or coercion, it’s a definite “No!”.

And remember, silence isn’t consent. There’s nothing sexier than clear communication and respect for boundaries. It’s not just a legal requirement, folks, but the foundation of any steamy, fulfilling encounter.

2. Embrace Your Body

Next up, let’s discuss body positivity.

In the world of airbrushed models and unattainable beauty standards, embracing your body as it is can be a revolutionary act. Celebrating and loving your body, in all its magnificent imperfection, is a vital step towards sex positivity.

Toss out those glossy magazines, step in front of the mirror, and give yourself a loving nod of approval.

3. Explore and Understand Your Sexual Desire

Here’s something fun: Exploring your sexual desire.

Get curious about what turns you on, and what makes you tick. It’s about making peace with your fantasies, kinks, and fetishes.

Remember, as long as it involves consenting adults, there’s no shame in your game. Dive deep, explore your desires, and welcome to the wonderful, wild world of self-discovery.

4. Discuss Sex Openly and Honestly

Moving right along, let’s talk about talking. No, not about the weather, but about sex.

Having open and honest conversations about sex with your partners, friends, or healthcare providers is a key component of sex positivity. Trust me, it’s far more interesting than discussing the weather.

Break the ice, break the stigma, and let’s get talking.

5. Practice Safe Sex

Safety first, folks. Practicing safe sex is not only a critical part of sex positivity but it’s also considered downright sexy (and smart).

Condoms, dental dams, vaccinations, regular STI screenings — they’re not just for school health classes, they’re for everyone. While I haven’t been the poster child for safe sex, it’s wise to gear up, get tested, and remember: safety doesn’t dampen the fun, it fuels it.

6. Respect All Sexual Orientations and Gender Identities

Welcome to the rainbow.

Respecting all sexual orientations and gender identities is a cornerstone of sex positivity. Straight, gay, bisexual, asexual, cisgender, transgender, non-binary — it’s a diverse spectrum, and all identities within it are valid and deserve respect.

It’s about understanding that love is love, and self-identification is a personal and profound journey.

7. Educate Yourself and Others

Knowledge is power, and sexual education is liberation.

Keep yourself informed about sexual health, different forms of sex, and sexuality. And don’t just hoard that knowledge — share it with your partners, friends, and anyone who might benefit from it.

Arm yourself with the facts and let’s debunk those myths and misconceptions together.

Don’t just read random articles on the internet. Study the research.

8. Advocate for Sex Positive Policies and Resources

Take it a step further — advocate for sex-positive policies, both in your community and on a broader scale.

This could be anything from supporting comprehensive sex education in schools to advocating for access to sexual healthcare. Sex positivity doesn’t just stop in the bedroom, it extends to the society we live in.

9. Recognize and Combat Sexual Stigma and Shame

Our society is teeming with sexual stigma and shame, and it’s time to challenge that.

Recognize it in media, in conversations, and in attitudes. Take a stand against it. Encourage open, shame-free dialogue about sex and remind everyone that as long as it involves consensual adults, there’s no need for guilt or shame.

10. Embrace Masturbation as a Healthy Practice

Yes, let’s talk about solo sex.

Masturbation is healthy, natural, and an amazing way to understand your body and your desires. It’s self-love in its most literal sense. Shoo those taboos away and embrace the joy of self-exploration.

11. Embrace Aging and Sexuality

It’s a myth that sexuality fades with age.

In fact, it can be like a fine wine, getting better over time. Embracing aging and sexuality is part of being sex-positive. Age brings wisdom, confidence, and often, a better understanding of one’s desires and boundaries.

Let’s appreciate the beauty of sexuality at all stages of life.

12. Practice Patience and Understanding with Partners

A little patience and understanding can go a long way in fostering sex-positive relationships. Remember, we’re all on our own unique journeys with sexuality, so practice empathy, patience, and open-mindedness with your partners. It can make all the difference.

13. Encourage Sexual Autonomy

It’s your body, your choice.

Encourage sexual autonomy, both for yourself and others. Remember, you have the right to say yes, and the equally important right to say no. Celebrate and respect that autonomy.

It’s at the heart of sex positivity.

14. Challenge Gender Stereotypes

Let’s bust those gender stereotypes, shall we?

Men aren’t always the aggressors, women aren’t always the submissive ones, and not everyone fits into the binary of male and female. Challenge these stereotypes in your life, in your relationships, and in society as a whole.

15. Celebrate Sexual Diversity

Last, but definitely not least, celebrate sexual diversity.

There’s a whole world of sexual practices, kinks, and preferences out there. As long as it involves consensual adults, it’s all a part of the beautiful tapestry of human sexuality.

So, let’s throw a parade and celebrate it (in fact, we probably already do).

16. Appreciate the Non-Sexual Aspects of Relationships

Here’s a paradox for you: part of being sex-positive is understanding and appreciating the non-sexual aspects of relationships.

Emotional intimacy, intellectual compatibility, and shared hobbies — these elements are just as important in creating a fulfilling relationship. While we’re here celebrating sex, let’s also raise a glass to the beauty of non-sexual intimacy.

17. Promote Accessibility in Sex

Let’s not forget about accessibility.

Sex positivity involves advocating for and creating a sexual culture that’s inclusive of people with disabilities.

This might include things like accessible sex education materials, sex toys designed for various physical abilities, and a broader understanding and acceptance of diverse sexual experiences.

18. Prioritize Pleasure

At the heart of sex positivity lies pleasure.

Prioritize your pleasure and the pleasure of your partner(s). Remember, sex isn’t just about procreation, it’s about recreation too. Enjoy the journey, explore what feels good, and never feel guilty about pursuing your pleasure.

19. Break the Silence Around Female Sexual Pleasure

Even in our progressive era, the topic of female sexual pleasure can be shrouded in mystery and false information.

Being sex-positive involves breaking that silence and affirming the importance of female pleasure. It’s about recognizing that women’s sexual desires and needs are just as valid and important as men’s.

This might involve open discussions about female orgasms, clitoral stimulation, or the magic of the G-spot.

20. Reject Unwanted Societal Expectations

Last, but certainly not least, it’s time to reject unwanted societal expectations about what sex “should” be.

Our culture is brimming with “shoulds” and “shouldn’ts” about sex — what’s acceptable, what’s normal, who should want what and when. Being sex-positive means letting go of these limiting expectations and defining your own version of a satisfying sex life.

Why Is It Important To Be Sex Positive?

To put it simply, being sex-positive is liberating.

It allows you to embrace your sexuality, with all its quirks and kinks, without any guilt or shame. It allows you to respect and celebrate the sexual choices of others.

And most importantly, it makes room for more open, honest, and fulfilling relationships.

Being sex-positive allows for comprehensive and accurate sex education, which is a significant factor in reducing STIs and unplanned pregnancies. It also fights against sexual violence by promoting consent and open communication.

In a world where sex-negativity can lead to shame, repression, and misinformation, sex positivity is like a breath of fresh, liberating air.

Plus, it contributes to better sexual health.

When we can openly discuss sex, we’re more likely to have regular check-ups and prioritize safety. It also leads to better mental health, as we free ourselves from the burden of societal expectations and shame associated with our desires.

Beyond the personal benefits, sex positivity creates a more inclusive, understanding society.

It rejects harmful stereotypes, embraces diversity, and encourages respect for all people.

Being sex-positive doesn’t mean you have to be a sexual superhero, engaging in every type of sexual activity or pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone. It’s about having an open mind, understanding consent, and respecting the sexual decisions of others, even if they differ from your own.

Final Thoughts: Sex-Positive Examples

In a world that can often seem to thrive on negativity, shame, and division, being sex-positive is an act of compassion, respect, and understanding. It’s about recognizing that our shared humanity encompasses a wide range of experiences and desires and celebrating that diversity.

Let’s spread the love.

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Christopher Kokoski
RelationshipFire

Endlessly curious| proud word nerd| Don’t miss my next article — sign up to my Medium email list: https://bit.ly/3yy18Bc