Queer

A label and umbrella term that refers to a variety of sexual/romantic orientations, gender identities, and gender modalities that are anything other than heterosexual and cisgender. In the past, “queer” was used as a slur, and may still be offensive to some. However, many people use the word with pride to describe themselves and their communities.

More Vocab

Virginity

Having never had sex. May mean different things to different people. For example, many people think you “lose your virginity” when you have vaginal sex. Others think that you lose your virginity if you have other kinds of sexual activity, like oral sex or anal sex.

Taboo

A behavior that’s outside the cultural norms. Something society or culture says you shouldn’t do or talk about.

Pangender

Identifying with all genders.

Zygote

The single-celled organism that results from the joining of the egg and sperm (fertilization).

Ze (ze, zir, zirs, zirself)

A gender-inclusive pronoun (or set of pronouns) some people use for themselves. One of many pronouns that people may use instead of pronouns such as “he,” “she,” or “they.” See "neopronouns."

Yeast infection

A type of vaginitis caused by an overgrowth of a yeast that naturally lives in the vagina/on the body, called candida albicans. Yeast infections may also occur in the penis or mouth. A yeast infection in the mouth or throat is called “thrush.”

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