Female Sexuality Syllabus

Section A

Introduction

We will review the course procedures and requirements to create a safe space over our time together, draw up a class contract, as well as create a forum for discussion regarding what students hope to obtain by taking this course.

Section B

Communication

We will discuss the importance of honesty and communication in relationships and group dynamics. Topics will include communication inhibitors, methods of effective communication, and asserting/respecting boundaries.

Section C

Anatomy, Sex and Gender

This section includes a discussion of topics ranging from commonly perceived views of anatomy to an analysis of the social construction of gender and anatomical sex.  We will also explore the spectrum of gender expression and identity as it relates to our own lives.

Section D

Power & Privilege

We will look at how systems of oppression shape the way individuals engage in the world and how power and privilege influence the way we live our lives. This includes an analysis of the “-isms” and how power and privilege play a role in providing choices, opportunities and access.

Section E

Women’s Health and Menstruation

In this section, we will discuss internalized expectations for cunt “cleanliness,” how to have empowered gynecologist visits, and information about pelvic exams and pap smears. We will also celebrate the menstrual cycle while educating ourselves about alternatives to mainstream ways of dealing with menstruation.

Section F

Contraception and Sexually Transmitted Infections

We will cover safer sex methods, contraception options, STI’s and STD’s.  

Section G

Body Image & Portrayals of Women

In this section we look at how people have internalized views of beauty and attractiveness, leading to competition, acrimony, and unhealthy relationships to our bodies. We will also begin to explore how sexuality is portrayed in different forms of popular media and analyze how such portrayals are influenced by age, race, class, etc. We then examine how these portrayals affect our personal lives and allot days to present the midterm Body Image projects.

Section H

Reproductive Choices and Motherhood

We will take an in-depth look at the variety of women’s reproductive choices. We will discuss cultural, ethnic, societal, religious, and political factors that affect women’s choices. Topics covered will include pregnancy, abortion, miscarriage, birth, and motherhood. We will also discuss effects pregnancy, childbirth, and motherhood have on sexuality.

Section I

Sexual Practices and Orientation

We will look at how society views sexuality, and factors that shape our sexuality including heterosexism, religion, culture, and ethnicity. Topics discussed: a variety of sexual practices, the spectrum of sexual orientation, and the expression of one’s own sexual desires.

Section J

Self-Love, Pleasure, and Orgasm

We will look at different models of the sexual response cycle as well as discuss the physiological and psychological factors of orgasms. We will also discuss methods of self-pleasure, erogenous zones, female ejaculation, and negative and positive views of self-love/masturbation.

Section K

Pornography, Erotica, and Sex Work

We will discuss pornography and erotica in a variety of mediums, as well as various forms of sex work, and their effects on the women’s sexuality and different views of sex work. We will also discuss the taboos that surround pornography and sex work.

Section L

Relationships

We will discuss the spectrum of relationship types and the importance of honesty and communication in sexual and non-sexual relationships.

Section M

Gender-Based Violence

We will take an in-depth look at gender-based violence in the many forms it takes, the victim vs. survivor paradigm, and we will share our own experiences with violence.

Section N

Womyn’s Empowerment & Final Projects

We will explore the process of empowerment and the resulting power gained from the journey. We talk about the importance of challenging systems of oppression, community building, and individual empowerment. The last week will also be devoted to presenting final projects/papers and reflection.