Defining Sexual Penetration

Sexual penetration is the insertion of a body part or other object into a body orifice, such as the vagina, anus or mouth, as part of human sexual activity or animal sexual behavior. The term is most commonly used in statute law in the context of proscribing certain sexual activities. Terms such as sexual intercourse or carnal knowledge are more commonly found in older statutes, while many modern criminal statutes use the term sexual penetration because it is a broad term encompassing (unless otherwise qualified) any form of penetrative sexual activity, including digital or with an object, and may involve only the most minimal penetration. Some jurisdictions refer to some forms of penetration as "acts of indecency", or other terminology.

During vaginal sex (also known as penetrative vaginal sex, sexual intercourse and just sex) the penis goes into the vagina. If you watch movies or look at pornography you may have a very unrealistic idea of what sex is like. There is no one right way of having vaginal sex. It can be a very gentle, intimate experience or a passionate, adventurous one and many other things in between. You can try having sex however you and your partner would like to.  

Sometimes called heavy petting, foreplay helps to get both people sexually aroused (or turned on) and ready for vaginal sex. It can involve kissing, stroking, caressing, rubbing, touching or oral sex. Foreplay should be enjoyable for both partners. Some people choose to stick to foreplay and not have penetrative sex. If you are both ready to have vaginal sex, the more aroused you both are, the easier it will be for the penis to enter the vagina. You’ll know you’re getting aroused when the vagina begins to moisten and the penis becomes erect, getting bigger and harder.

For some, penetration during sex is even more enjoyable when it’s very deep. Not only can it feel good physically, but it may also be emotionally satisfying as it brings bodies very close together. Deep penetration can be either vaginal or anal and usually involves penetration with a penis or dildo. Following a few safety precautions can help minimize discomfort. 

Penetration shouldn’t be painful. If it is, you may need to use more lubrication, spend more time stretching, choose a different position, or simply stop. Deep penetration can lead to bruising and even internal tears if you ignore pain.  Only use a dildo or sex toy that’s designed for penetration. Don’t use other objects as they may get stuck or cause pain or injury.

Penetrative sex crimes are generally considered more serious than non-penetrative sex crimes, and sexual penetration of a child even more so. A child below the statutory age of consent generally cannot consent to acts involving sexual penetration. In laws, the term sexual penetration is commonly used in relation to sex with children. Unlawful sexual penetration is generally an offense irrespective of how deep the penetration was and irrespective of whether ejaculation of semen took place.