A–Z basics
- Consent: freely given, informed, specific, ongoing and reversible agreement.
- Contraception: methods used to reduce the chance of pregnancy.
- Emergency contraception: methods used after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure to reduce pregnancy risk.
- STI: sexually transmitted infection; some infections cause few or no symptoms.
- RTI: reproductive tract infection; terminology and categories can vary by clinical context.
- Barrier method: a method, such as a condom, that creates a physical barrier to reduce certain risks.
- Sexual orientation: a person’s pattern of romantic, emotional or sexual attraction.
- Gender identity: a person’s internal sense of their gender.
- Libido: a common term for sexual desire or interest.
- Medical review: a qualified professional’s documented assessment of content accuracy within a stated scope.
Definitions here are simplified for general learning. Clinical terms can have more specific meanings, so consult a healthcare professional or trusted medical source for individual questions.
Please remember: This guide is general education, not a diagnosis. Seek a qualified healthcare professional for personal medical advice, symptoms, testing or treatment.