Dear carrotmop,

Yes, it is possible for a woman to lose her virginity whether her vulva is lubricated ("wet") or unlubricated ("dry").

There are many different beliefs about what losing one's virginity means. Most people agree that women and men lose their virginity the first time they have penile-vaginal intercourse.

If a woman's vulva feels dry during sex, it may mean she isn't fully aroused which can make sex less comfortable for her and sometimes even painful. Partners who use condoms should be aware that not having enough lubrication would increase the chance of the condom breaking, because abrasive friction can tear latex. Abrasive friction can also create small tears in the walls of the vagina, which can increase a woman's risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection.

For safer sex, partners can use pre-lubricated condoms and store-bought, water-based lubricant during intercourse.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.