What is sexual intercourse?
Q: What is sexual intercourse?
A: Sexual intercourse is the insertion and thrusting of a male's penis into a female's vagina. It can also be referred to as coitus, copulation, having sex or sleeping together.
Q: Are there other forms of sexual intercourse besides penetration?
A: Yes, there are other forms of sexual intercourse such as oral intercourse or anal intercourse that do not involve the penetration of sexual organs. Fingering and fisting are also considered to be part of the definition of sexual intercourse.
Q: Is mating different from sexual reproduction?
A: Yes, mating is when two animals come together for the purpose of sexual reproduction while sexual reproduction involves the fusion of gametes (sperm and egg) to create an offspring.
Q: When do mammals usually mate?
A: Mammals usually mate when the female is at its most fertile period in its reproductive cycle which is known as estrus.
Q: Do some animals engage in sex acts even when they are not reproducing?
A: Yes, some animals such as bonobos, dolphins and chimpanzees engage in sex acts even when they are not reproducing which suggests that it may be done for pleasure rather than just for procreation.
Q: Why do humans have sex?
A: Humans typically have sex primarily for pleasure although it can also serve other functions such as strengthening social bonds between partners.
