Physically, socially, sexually, emotionally
Written by and for tweens and teens
⬅️ back to the Puberty Portal
Alcohol is the ingredient in beverages that works in the brain to disinhibit a person, often making certain things — like conversation with someone you hardly know — a little bit easier. It’s often called a “social lubricant” and that’s precisely why cocktail parties evolved! Alcoholic beverages in lower doses can impact the cerebellum –…
Drink spiking refers to when someone puts drugs or alcohol in another person’s drink without their knowledge or consent. Oftentimes, the intention of drink spiking is to make an individual more vulnerable to sexual assault by disorienting them or impairing their decision making. Anyone can be a victim of spiking, so it is important to…
Masturbation is when a person sexually pleasures themself, typically by touching their genitals or other sensitive parts of their body. The topic of masturbation can sometimes feel embarrassing or awkward, but it’s a totally normal part of exploring your body and nothing to be ashamed of. Choosing to masturbate – or even not to! –…
Condoms are one of the most effective and most common forms of practicing safe sex because they work as barriers. They are the only form of birth control that prevents pregnancy AND protects against STIs. But, they can still be a little confusing and maybe even intimidating. To help, here’s a rundown on the what,…
I felt my stomach sink this morning when being woken up by the chatter in the hallway and hearing my parents discussing that Roe v. Wade had been overturned. I thought I was dreaming still, but soon realized that unfortunately I was now awake, and what I was hearing was real. I am so deeply…
Let’s start with this: there’s a legal drinking age and if you’re under it, then by law you are not allowed to drink. That said, let’s add this: while not everyone chooses to drink alcohol in high school, you or your friends may find yourselves in settings where people are drinking. First things first: know…
STIs are sexually transmitted infections. They are exactly what they sound like – viral or bacterial infections that are passed through sexual acts. This includes vaginal sex, anal sex, oral sex, and genital touching. Most STIs enter the body one of two ways: via skin-to-skin contact or exchange of bodily fluids like saliva, blood, or…