Let's Talk About XXX

Many people form their first impressions of sex from porn. Sadly, while quality, ethically-produced adult films can be used to enhance your sex life, getting sex ed from porn is not the best idea. Here are some of the most common myths exposed.

Foreplay is optional

Porn often shows people going from clothed to having sex without even sharing a kiss. In reality, it takes time to build arousal, particularly for women. Porn stars manage by using lube (and there are gaps between takes for people to warm up too!)

All women love doggie style

Porn tends to use positions which show the performers as intimately as possible, with doggie as a particularly popular choice. Some women love it, some don't, but a hard pounding from behind is far from the only way to have sex.

Condoms are optional

While condoms are becoming more visible in porn, all too many films depict unprotected sex. Most performers are tested every 30 days to help ensure they are sexually transmitted infection (STI)-free, and only work with other people who've been tested; what you're watching is fantasy not reality so use a condom.

Group sex is standard

In porn, everyone wants to get intimate with each other. In real life, not everyone wants a three way.

Love your body as it is - or get fitter if you're unhappy with what you see.

Anal is easy

Saliva is often the lube of choice in porn. In reality, anal takes foreplay, going slow and a lot of lube.

External ejaculation is always welcome

While some women do enjoy this, it's by no means as common as porn would suggest. Only come on a partner after checking it's OK first.

All men have large penises

Penis size in porn is by no means representative of the general population.

Our bodies work how we want them to

It's rare you'll see erection failure or premature ejaculation in porn but these are both common in real life.

Everyone likes dirty talk

Some women enjoy graphic talk during sex. Others find it demeaning, funny or embarrassing. Ask your lover before you start calling her names.

Everyone has a perfect body

Porn often depicts pumped up men and pneumatic women with flawless bodies. Adult performers work hard to look good because they know they're going to be filmed naked. Love your body as it is - or get fitter if you're unhappy with what you see.