Glossary of terms

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Date Rape — “Date rape” is when you’re raped by a friend, someone you’re dating or a romantic partner. It’s also called “acquaintance rape.” So, if you tell your friend or partner you don’t want to have sex and they force you, that’s date rape, even if you’ve had sex with that person before. Date rape often happens at parties, raves, and other places where teens get together. Sometimes, rapists slip “date rate” drugs into people’s drinks. These drugs can knock you out or make you unable to move or resist, making it easier for someone to rape you. It’s illegal to give these drugs to someone.

Deficiency — A lack of something.

Dental Dam — A thin square of latex material used during dental procedures. It can be used to cover a female’s genitals during oral sex to reduce the risk of spreading sexually transmitted infections.

Depo-Provera — A hormone that is injected into a female’s arm or buttock every 12 weeks that requires a prescription. It works by preventing ovulation and by thickening cervical mucus to keep sperm from the egg and is 99.7% effective. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Also known as "the shot."

Diagnose — Telling a person that they are infected with a disease or illness.

Diaphragm — A dome-shaped rubber cup used in conjunction with spermicidal gel/cream that covers the opening to the cervix to prevent sperm from entering the uterus. It is 80-94% effective at preventing pregnancy. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Discharge — A fluid that comes out of the vagina, penis, or anus and may be an indication of a STD or other infection.

Ectopic Pregnancy — Pregnancy that occurs outside of the uterus and usually in the fallopian tubes.

Ejaculation — When sperm exits the male’s penis during orgasm.

Embryo — A zygote or fertilized egg that once it reaches a certain size, buries itself inside the uterus.

Emergency Contraception — A way to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. Emergency contraception comes in the form of pills (commonly known as the "morning-after pill," even though you can take it up to five days after). The pills are sold under the name Plan B. ECPs can be up to 75-89% effective if taken within 72 hours. EC can be purchased at pharmacies without a prescription if you are over 18 years old. If you are under 18 years old, a prescription is necessary.

Endometrium — The lining of the uterus that grows and sheds during the menstrual cycle.

Erection — When the penis gets stiff and hard from sexual excitement and stands away from the body.

Epididymis — A coiled tube through which sperm leaves the testes.

Estrogen — A hormone produced by the ovaries which helps to regulate the menstrual cycle.