Sex Glossary: A

abortion: The termination of a pregnancy by the loss or destruction of the fetus before it has reached viability.

adolescence: The period of life, usually around ages 11–16, wherein the brain triggers hormonal changes leading to adulthood (both physically and psychologically).

anorgasmia: The inability to have an orgasm.

anticipatory anxiety: When the fear or expectation of a possible failure causes an actual failure; a common cause of short-term impotence.

autoimmune deficiency syndrome; AIDS: Sexually transmitted disease; extremely deadly; not curable.