Ask the Experts: What is Promiscuous?

Dear carusoe,

The word promiscuous is intended to describe a person who lacks certain standards in selecting sexual partners. But this definition can be kind of confusing. It implies that sexual activity is something negative and excessive. Some people think that being sexually active with many partners makes someone promiscuous, others think that unmarried people who have any kind of sex play with a partner are promiscuous. Other people feel the word should not be used at all because it is a value judgment of someone’s personal business. There isn’t one answer about what promiscuity is. Most often when the word is used, it doesn’t really help us understand what is being talked about.

Deciding to have sex and deciding how many times we want it and how many sex partners we want is a personal decision. However, teens who are having sex need to make decisions about protection. Female or latex condoms can prevent pregnancy and reduce the risk of transmitting sexually transmitted infections.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.