Then, just a few days later, the CDC walked back part of RFK’s statement regarding children’s vaccines. The agency announced COVID shots would stay on the schedule for healthy children 6 months to 17 years old, as long as the children and their caregivers consulted with a doctor or provider — a caveat even doctors found confusing. “My neck still hurts from the whiplash,” Dr. Molly O’Shea, MD, FAAP, an official spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and a faculty at the Children’s Hospital of Michigan General Pediatrics Continuity Clinic, said on a briefing hosted by the non-profit HealthyWomen this week.

RFK is a known vaccine skeptic, but it’s highly unusual for the Health Secretary to make such decisions unilaterally, as multiple experts pointed out during the briefing. So ultimately, what does this mean for children and pregnant people when it comes to getting vaccinated for COVID? Are these shots still necessary, and will insurance still foot the bill for them if without this government backing? Here’s what we know so far, according to experts in the briefing.

Is the COVID-19 Vaccine Still Effective For Children & Pregnant People?

The COVID vaccine is still considered very effective for children and pregnant people, with lower risks than the infection itself. Early in the pandemic, pregnant people and children often suffered significant outcomes from COVID, explained Dr. Margot Savoy, MD, MPH, FAAFP, senior vice president of education, inclusiveness and physician well-being at the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). “For pregnant people, in particular, the risk of ending up in the ICU, the risk of ending up on a ventilator, and the risk of death were just remarkably high, much more than you would expect,” she explained during the briefing. Once the vaccine became available, “those rates declined,” Dr. Savoy said. In fact, the serious outcomes that many worried would be side effects from the vaccine — things like miscarriage, preeclampsia, blood clots, or premature delivery — were actually more likely to happen as side effects from COVID itself, not the vaccine. “If you find yourself vaccinated, the rates of all of those things actually go down to almost none,” Dr. Savoy explained.

Plus, there’s the fact that vaccinated pregnant people pass their immunity to their fetus. That means that the vaccine protects the pregnant person themselves; their fetus, against stillbirth and premature delivery; and the baby, once they’re born, by conferring protection in their first six months, Dr. Savoy explained.

That’s a good thing, because “babies are very high risk” when it comes to respiratory infections like COVID, added Dr. Alice Sato, MD, PhD, an assistant professor at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and a member of the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) and the Advocacy Task Force at the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society. “Because they have such small airways… just a little bit of inflammation can make a baby get into trouble with their breathing a lot faster,” Dr. Sato explained. “[Babies] had very high hospitalizations, even with the last wave [of COVID-19.]”

Children of any age can also experience long COVID — Dr. Sato said the most recent estimate was that 6 million children in the US were suffering from it — leading to symptoms like fatigue and fussiness. COVID can also lead to missing crucial periods of time from school or preschool. Getting vaccinated can help shorten those periods and protect them from those kinds of complications. “In my vaccinated patients who get COVID, they get mild COVID, if they get it at all — and they aren’t as apt to get long COVID,” Dr. O’Shea said.

The vaccines are also still considered safe, the doctors agreed. In short, “the recommendations have changed, but the science hasn’t changed,” said Kate Connors, senior director of public affairs at the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

What Are the New COVID-19 Vaccine Recommendations For Children & Pregnant People?

So what are those new recommendations? The CDC no longer recommends COVID vaccination during pregnancy, which “seems to be following a unilateral decision from the HHS Secretary,” Connors noted, referencing RFK Jr. “It was made without any of the input of the experts at the CDC, the members of ACIP [the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices], certainly without feedback from organizations like ACOG, and so we’re very concerned about this.” She noted that ACOG continues to recommend COVID vaccination for pregnant people.

For children, the new recommendations are less cut-and-dry. After initially saying the US no longer recommends COVID-19 vaccines for healthy children over 6 months (with exceptions for children with certain medical conditions), the CDC now says it recommends a “collaborative decision-making [approach] with your pediatrician,” explained Dr. O’Shea. “Healthy children with no underlying health conditions can, in collaboration with their pediatrician, make a decision about whether or not they want to have their child vaccinated this coming fall against COVID-19.” However, this unusual caveat leaves the door open for insurance companies to rescind coverage of the vaccine, possibly forcing parents to pay out of pocket to vaccinate their children (more on that below).

For Dr. Savoy, the “really deeply troubling” part of these decisions is the lack of evidence to support them. “I actually don’t know what data was used to make the decisions that we’re talking about today,” she said. “The data that I have been able to see most recently continues to mark pregnant people as being incredibly high risk. There would be no situation in the data that I saw that would make me think that it makes sense to remove that recommendation.” The same goes for children, she added.

COVID-19 remains a threat, Dr. Savoy emphasized. “We keep having new variants show up. We keep having people end up in the hospital. We keep running out of beds in the ER. There’s things that are still happening, even though they don’t show up on the news.”

Are COVID-19 Vaccines Still Covered by Insurance?

This is one thorny question to come out of the changing guidelines. “We don’t know what’s going to happen with insurance coverage, and we’re very, very worried about it,” Connors said. That’s because there’s a direct connection between government vaccine recommendations and insurance coverage of those vaccines, Dr. Savoy explained. Insurance companies typically use government recommendations as a sign that a vaccine is safe and essential; when those recommendations are removed or weakened, the companies may see it as a sign (or an opportunity) to stop covering that vaccine.

Connors also pointed out that we’re only a few months from flu and RSV season, when vaccines become all the more essential for public health. “This is a really tough time for these conversations, for these unanswered questions,” she said.

Should Pregnant People & Children Still Get the COVID-19 Vaccine?

All four experts continue to recommend COVID-19 vaccines for everyone, including pregnant people and children. Dr. Sato cited the “incredible, robust” data that shows that the COVID-19 is safe, effective, and presents fewer risks of complications than an infection itself. “The science has not changed,” added Connors. “The COVID vaccine is safe and it is effective… [It’s] the best tool that we have to prevent severe outcomes associated with COVID infection.”

Dr. Savoy agreed. “I would still strongly recommend that if you’re a pregnant person, that you get vaccinated, not just to protect yourself, but… to protect the fetus and to protect your newborn infant on the other side of that delivery,” she stressed. “I’m still willing to stand on that hill… And if you were bringing your child in for their visit, I would still say that your child needs to have at least that primary series as a routine recommendation.”

Before you go, shop these products to soothe your child’s cold symptoms:

But a new study suggests that if teen depression is caught and treated early, there’s a better chance it won’t become a long-term issue.

Scientists at the University of Edinburgh analyzed data from more than 35,000 young people to explore how depression operates in teens compared to adults. To do this, they applied an intriguing concept borrowed from physics — specifically, how temperature affects the state of matter.

The researchers imagined the different symptoms of depression as points in a web and calculated a kind of “temperature” for this web. Higher temperatures meant the symptoms were less connected and more flexible, while lower temperatures indicated that the symptoms were tightly linked and more stable.

They found that in younger teens, symptoms of depression — like sadness, low energy, or a lack of interest in things — tend to shift more frequently, come and go, and are less predictable. In other words, they’re less likely to get stuck. In contrast, adult symptoms become more fixed and stable, making them more likely to persist and develop into long-term or chronic depression.

Another key insight from the study: boys’ symptoms tend to stabilize more quickly than girls’, leaving less time for risk or protective factors to influence their trajectory. In contrast, symptoms in teenage girls continue to fluctuate for a longer period.

Overall, this flexibility in teen depression, according to researchers, may be influenced by hormonal changes during puberty, ongoing brain development, and environmental or social factors — like school stress, friendships, and family dynamics — which are often at the heart of teen emotional struggles.

In short: Teen depression isn’t just an earlier version of adult depression — it behaves differently. And that’s actually good news. It means there is a better chance of helping young people recover before depression becomes deeply ingrained.

Neuropsychologist Dr. Sanam Hafeez said the study’s results stood out because it supports something often seen in clinical practice which is that early intervention truly matters.

“The idea that depressive symptoms are more flexible in teens makes sense, especially given the rapid brain development during adolescence,” she tells SheKnows. “The researchers’ emphasis on puberty and hormonal changes as major influences on symptom variability is well-supported. A surprising and creative element was the use of network analysis and the concept of ‘network temperature’ from physics to describe mental health patterns. It was also compelling to see that boys’ symptoms seem to stabilize faster than girls’, which could impact how early interventions are designed.” Dr. Hafeez did note the need for more detail “regarding how environmental and social stressors were measured or included,” but said that overall, “The finding that adult depression tends to be more rigid highlights the importance of addressing symptoms before they become fixed.”

Dr. Maria Grace Wolk agrees. “This study confirms what we often see in trauma work—depressive symptoms in teens are still flexible because they’re often learned responses to early stress,” Dr. Wolk tells SheKnows. Again, that’s a positive finding, because “what’s learned can be unlearned,” she says.

The study, she added, also demonstrates the importance of a teen’s environment when it comes to mental health. “Things like attachment, stress at home, or feeling unseen shape how their brain develops,” she explained. “For example, a teen who shuts down emotionally may be protecting themselves from past hurt. If we support them early—before those patterns settle in—we have a real chance to help them heal and build healthier ways to cope.”

So what are the major signs of depression in teens?

Dr. Wolk says one major red flag is lasting sadness or irritability. “This is a rough day type of mood that lingers for weeks,” she explained. “Another key sign is a loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy, like sports, music, or time with friends. Changes in sleep or appetite are also common, whether it’s sleeping too much, not sleeping at all, or noticeable shifts in eating habits.”

Teens may also show signs of low energy or struggle to concentrate, which can affect school performance or day-to-day functioning. Most importantly, Dr. Wolk says, expressions of hopelessness, self-harm, or talk of wanting to disappear should never be dismissed—these require immediate attention. “If you notice a combination of these symptoms, especially if they persist, it’s time to reach out for support,” she advises. “Early intervention can change the trajectory of a young person’s mental health.”

Why is it important to get treatment for teens with depression?

Getting treatment for teens with depression is critical because early symptoms can become more severe over time if left unaddressed, says Dr. Hafeez. “Depression during adolescence can interfere with school, friendships, and family relationships. It also increases the risk of self-harm, substance use, and suicide,” she explains. As we know, the teen brain is still developing — which means it can be more responsive to treatment and change. “Early support can help teens build healthy coping skills that last into adulthood,” Dr. Hafeez explains. “Without help, depression can become a long-term condition that’s harder to treat later on. Addressing symptoms early gives teens the best chance for recovery and a healthier future.”

What parents can do to help

Parents play a powerful role in supporting a teen’s mental health. If you’re noticing that your teen is struggling, Dr. Wolk recommends first creating a safe space for your teen to express what they’re feeling, without rushing to fix or dismiss it. Then, “Listen with curiosity, not judgment. If something seems off, trust your gut and seek professional support early,” she says.

The key, as indicated by the study, is to treat early, and treat relationally. “The earlier we intervene, the greater the chance we have to support teens in building healthier emotional patterns, before those patterns become deeply rooted,” Dr. Wolk says. “Use data, but understand the story behind each symptom. As parents, caregivers, and professionals, we have a powerful opportunity to meet teens with compassion and presence because depression symptoms are not just statistics, they are signs that something deeper needs attention, care, and connection.”

Before you go, check out our favorite mental health apps:

I was on birth control pills for around 14 years. When I finally tossed my last pack, I was surprised to learn just how irregular my cycles are. At first, I thought it was the effects of being on hormonal birth control for so long, but after being prescription-free for two years, I still deal with the frustrations of an irregular cycle. 

Since going off birth control, I have become completely obsessed with wellness tech for women’s health to help me better understand my cycle. This includes the coveted Oura Ring, which I wear (and sleep with) daily. I love the Oura Ring because it makes tracking my cycle based on my basal body temperature a total breeze — all I have to do is sync it with the Natural Cycles app, and it tells me where I am in my cycle and can predict my fertility window and period.

Then I had the opportunity to test the Mira Hormone Monitor and realized that, as much as the Oura Ring and Natural Cycles combination is effective at predicting my period (it was almost always pretty accurate), my irregular cycle throws off the technology, making it harder to predict which day I actually ovulate. 

Mira Fertility Tracker Review

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The Mira Hormone Monitor is a small, egg-shaped device that is essentially like having a lab in the palm of your hand. It connects to the Mira app, where you can load data and share additional insights (including basal body temperature, which I still pull from my Oura Ring and Natural Cycles app) and get a good idea of what is going on internally throughout your cycle — no matter how long or short they might be — to know precisely when you’re ovulating.

“It doesn’t just give you a yes/no answer about ovulation — it quantitatively tracks key reproductive hormones, luteinizing hormone (LH), E3G (the main metabolite of estrogen), PdG (the main metabolite progesterone), and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), using urine samples, offering a much more nuanced and accurate view of your cycle,” says Rosemary MacKenzie, a clinical manager and research lead at Mira. 

How Does Mira Work?

To test your hormones, you pee into a small silicone cup that is included with the device, then dip a test wand into the urine for 20 seconds (the app conveniently counts down for you), then you insert the wand into the device, and it works its magic to analyze the hormone levels and give you an accurate view of where everything is at. Once the wand is analyzed, the app doesn’t just store the insights — it uses AI to interpret the details in context, taking cycle history, hormone trends, and irregularities into account to generate personalized insights and predictions, says MacKenzie. The app also tells you when to test based on the data, so you don’t have to track and set reminders for yourself. 

All of this sounds like a hassle — and a lot more work than just sleeping with a wellness tracker and syncing its data to a birth control app — but it’s actually not as annoying as it seems. I have taken my device with me on multiple trips, including on a tour with my musician husband, where I was literally operating a lab from the teeny tiny tour bus bathroom (while the bus was moving, no less). Its small design and simple process made it so easy to keep up with my cycle insights even as I bopped from city to city. 

Verdict

Having a clear idea of my fertility window and ovulation window has been a total game-changer for me, since having an irregular cycle can make getting pregnant more difficult. “An irregular cycle often indicates that ovulation is not occurring regularly or at all, which makes it harder to predict the fertile window,” says Anate A. Brauer, M.D., FACOG, of RMA of New York, a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist with extensive experience in treating all medical and surgical aspects of infertility.

She notes that most people with irregular cycles are still able to conceive, but without consistent ovulation, the chances of conception in a given cycle are lower. By understanding my cycle on a lab level, trying to get pregnant has felt less and less like a shot in the dark and given me the confidence boost I have needed in my fertility journey.  

Pros: 
More precise cycle tracking 
Compact size that you can easily travel with 
Comes with everything you need to get started 
User-friendly app 
FSA and HSA eligible 

Cons: 
High price tag (and the refill wands are also pricey)  

For people with vulvas, there’s a whole host of ways to have a really good orgasm. One of the most beloved of the big O’s are ones coming from clitoral stimulation, because, well, the clitoris is a super sensitive area totally charged with erogenous energy (aka thousands of nerves concentrated in that one intense spot).

As sex educator and relationship coach Dawn Serra previously told SheKnows, the clitoris is a “massive network of swollen, tingly pleasure.” It’s bigger than you might think (it actually looks more like a four-legged animal than one single “spot”), gets an erection of its own (similar to the penis), and the ways it receives and responds to pleasure evolves over time. And while you might have found your way around your own clitoris (or guided a few partners through the Do’s and Don’ts), it’s totally normal for the clit to take a bit of time to reach full arousal. “Remember that it takes, on average, 20-25 minutes of stimulation and foreplay before a woman is fully aroused,” Serra says.

While there’s tons of toys on the market — ones that cater to penetration, to high tech bells and whistles or ones that are just unique and a little surprising —  sometimes you want to find a toy that’s really good at one thing. Whether you’re just starting your toy collection or looking for a new MVP toy, we’ve rounded up our favorites — ones that mimic oral (right down to the tongues) and ones that vibrate in low-key and high-key ways — that target the clit. Try a few of these out and you’ll level-up your cliteracy in no time.

A version of this story was published April 2020.

As Dr. Joel “Gator” Warsh, a L.A.-based pediatrician puts it: “We live in a real world of school stress, fast food, screen time, and hormonal rollercoasters. So yes, many teens can benefit from specific vitamins or supplements — when used mindfully.”

But we’re not talking about those “fun” gummies either. When it comes to proper supplementation, Dr. Michael Glazier, Chief Medical Officer of Bluebird Kids Health, advises that because vitamins and supplements are not regulated by the FDA as closely as medications, “it is especially  important to consult your pediatrician or family practitioner when considering taking them and considering what dose to take. While some supplemental vitamins have dosing recommendations for teenagers, it is also best to consult with your physician to confirm.”

Best vitamins for teens at a glance

Daily Multivitamin: SmartyPants Teen Girl Plus Multivitamin or SmartyPants Teen Guy Plus Multivitamin, $28.50
Vitamin D3 + K2: Nature Made Vitamin D3 + K2 Softgels, $16.79
Vitamin C + Zinc: Vitamin C + Zinc by Nature’s Bounty, $10
Iron: OLLY Delightful Iron Vitamin Chewable Tablets, $14
Vitamin B: Nature Made Energy B12 Gummies, $10.79
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Ritual Omega-3 DHA & EPA Capsules, $37
Magnesium: Nature Made High Absorption Magnesium Glycinate, $16
Probiotics: Olly Big 10 Probiotic, $20

Vitamins for teens: what to look for

If you are buying vitamins or supplements, Dr. Glazier recommends looking for a reputable brand, since all brands are not made equally, and ideally one whose product has been reviewed by an independent third party such as the Consumerlab.com, which investigates compounds for both purity and potential contaminants.

Supplementation can help your teen, when guided by a professional and when it’s clear that the nutrients and minerals they need are not present in their diet. Dr. Warsh says he recommends vitamins for teens who:

Vitamins for teens: what to avoid

It’s worth noting that too much dosage of a vitamin can be harmful. According to Dr. Glazier, an example of potential harm from taking higher than recommended doses of a vitamin can be seen with Vitamin A. “In recommended doses Vitamin A can help with vision development and ocular (eye) health as well as support the immune system,” he explains. “Hypervitaminosis A, the state where someone is exposed to higher than recommended doses of Vitamin A, however, can cause liver damage, headaches, dizziness and visual difficulties.”

That’s why it’s a good idea to speak to a doctor before you start your teen on a new vitamin or supplement — to ensure the new supplement will get them to a healthy level of that vitamin or mineral, not push it over the edge.

Does your teen need vitamins or supplements?

According to Britta Sather, a licensed nutritionist, your teen’s supplement needs vary based on several factors:

Bottom line: “If your teen has a varied, nutrient-rich diet and is thriving, supplements may not be necessary,” says Sather. “But in real life, small gaps are common—and supplements can help fill them when needed.”

If you’re looking for a good starting point, our team of pediatricians and nutritional experts shared a list of their recommendations for the vitamins your teen should be taking, and why.

Multivitamin

DAILY MULTIVITAMIN

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Both Dr. Warsh and Dr. Erin Barret, PhD, a nutritional expert, recommends a daily multivitamin, which can help fill common nutrient gaps — including vitamins A, C, D, E, key B vitamins, calcium, and magnesium — especially in teens with limited diets or busy schedules. Citing a recent national nutrition survey, Barret says teen boys and girls consistently fall short in key nutrients like vitamins A, C, D, E, calcium, and magnesium. “These nutrients are especially critical during the  teenage years, a time of rapid physical, mental, and emotional development.” (PS: This teen multivitamin from SmartyPants also comes in a version for boys.)

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Vitamin D3 (with K2)

VITAMIN D

Nature Made Vitamin D3 + K2 Softgels

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“Low Vitamin D is an epidemic in teens,” says Dr. Warsh. That’s in spite of Vitamin D being a crucial vitamin that supports immune health, bone development, mood, and hormone regulation — essential for teens and their rapid growth and evolving hormones. Adds Sather: “Many teens have low vitamin D levels, particularly those living in northern regions or with limited sun exposure.”

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Vitamin C + Zinc

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Vitamin C “is helpful for immune support, especially during cold weather season or times of high stress,” says Sather. Studies have also found that zinc can reduce the duration of a cold, and experts say it’s “essential for the function of the immune system.”

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Iron

OLLY Delightful Iron Vitamin Chewable Tablets

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$16.99

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“Particularly important for menstruating girls, iron supports energy and helps prevent low iron levels,” says Barret. Adds Sather: “Teen girls and athletes may have increased iron needs due to menstruation and energy needs. Asking your healthcare provider for a blood test to look at ferritin, hemoglobin, and iron levels is recommended before supplementing.”

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B Vitamins (especially B12)

Nature Made Energy B12 Gummies

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$16.99

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If your teen is vegan, consider supplementing with B12. “Vegan diets, in particular, do not provide Vitamin B12, since it is not found in plants,” says Dr. Glazier. “Vitamin B12  is important to our nervous system development and functioning as well as the formation of red blood cells. Strict vegans should incorporate B12 as a supplement in their diet.”

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Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Ritual Omega-3 DHA & EPA Capsules

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“Omega-3 supports brain development, mood regulation, and cardiovascular health. Teens who don’t eat fatty fish may benefit from a supplement,” says Sather.

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Magnesium

Nature Made High Absorption Magnesium Glycinate

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Warsh recommends 100–300 mg/day of magnesium, which he says helps with anxiety, irritability, sleep, and cramps.

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Probiotics

Olly Big 10 Probiotic

$20

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Sather, Barret, and Warsh recommend taking a probiotic for maintaining a diverse microbiome to help promote gut health, immune support, skin, digestion, and mental wellness.

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All our experts agree that supplements should support — not replace — a healthy, balanced diet. “Encourage your teen  to build strong nutrition habits by eating a variety of whole foods: fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, dairy or fortified alternatives, nuts, and seeds,” says Barret. “When paired with the right supplement  support, these habits lay the foundation for long-term wellness.”

Before you go, shop our favorite skincare brands for teens:

Whether your job is transitioning back to an actual office (or the ever-popular hybrid model) or you’re just looking for a seasonal wardrobe refresh, shopping for work clothes means looking for something that feels comfortable but looks professional. Luckily, that’s not as tall of a task as it might seem. Athleisure for the office has never been more popular or accessible, with brands from Walmart to Lululemon getting in on the trend.

Best Office Appropriate Athleisure Clothes, at a Glance

Best Overall: Beyond Yoga Status Trousers, $114
Best Pants: Spanx The Perfect Pant Wide Leg, $148
Best Top: Hikerkind Ribbed Merino Turtleneck 01, $98
Best Dress: Quince Tencel Jersey Ruched Waist Dress, $50
Best Athletic Dress: Beyond Yoga Featherweight At The Ready Square Neck Dress, $58 (originally $138)
Best Sweater Wrap: Athleta Pranayama Wrap, $89
Best Skort: GapFit Power Exercise Skort, $29 (originally $60)
Best Shirt Jacket: Vuori Mackenzie Shirt Jacket, $97 (originally $138)
Best Jumpsuit: Lululemon Drapey Softstreme Jumpsuit, $128
Best Hoodie: Losano Tenderblend Malibu Hoodie, $128

More good news? This style is also more subtle than ever. Wide-legged yoga pants are the perfect camouflage amidst a sea of loose work pants, and a moisture-wicking tennis dress or skirt with a blazer is the perfect ‘fit for hot summer work days. You’ll be rocking your workout gear right at the desk and your coworkers will be none the wiser.

While every workplace dress code is unique, there are luckily a few brands with designs that are stealthily work-appropriate while still offering some of that sweat-wicking, movement-friendly comfort that we love about our home clothes. We’re always on the lookout for these double-tasking closet staples, and now we’re spreading the wealth by sharing the best athleisure wear for the office that lets you keep the comfy vibes without looking like you’re coming from the gym.

Read on for some of the cutest athleisure workwear you can score right now and never stop feeling comfy AF — even in the office.

Our mission at SheKnows is to empower and inspire women, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Nordstrom is a SheKnows sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

When you think of car sex, images of awkward teenage fumblings probably come to mind. It’s a rite of passage for many, spanning generations and infusing pop culture, from AC/DC’s “Girls Got Rhythm” to LL Cool J’s “Backseat,” to Addison Rae singing, “losing all your innocence in the backseat” in “Diet Pepsi.” Now that you’re older, you might assume car sex is a thing of the past — back when you were more flexible, more naive, and didn’t mind a sore neck or aching hips in the name of a quickie.

But car sex isn’t just for hormonally-fueled teenagers. In fact, according to a 2017 study in The Journal of Sex Research, having sex in a parked car is “generally a positive romantic and sexual experience” for all genders. Car sex might just be the missing piece in your sex life when it feels a little stale.

Benefits of Car Sex

“Car sex isn’t just a throwback to teenage lust — it’s a surprisingly kinky setup hiding in plain sight,” sex and intimacy coach Annette Benedetti, host of the podcast Talk Sex With Annette, tells SheKnows. “There’s built-in bondage from seatbelts, a hit of exhibitionism from the public setting, and plenty of power play when someone’s calling the shots from the driver’s side.”

But what really makes it hot, says Benedetti, is the psychology of car sex: “Confined spaces heighten arousal by narrowing your sensory focus. You’re hyper-aware of breath, touch, eye contact — every moan feels amplified. And the novelty of being somewhere you’re not supposed to be lights up the brain’s reward center like a dashboard warning light. It’s not just about getting off — it’s about waking up parts of your desire that routine sex tends to put on cruise control.”

However, now that you’re older, your tolerance for doing something just for the sake of it has likely changed — it has to actually be worth it to be enjoyable. Whether you’re a “front seat thruster” or a “backseat babe,” there are ways to make car sex more comfortable and fun.

Car Sex Tips

“As a general rule, use common sense and discretion,” Angie Rowntree, founder & director of the award-winning ethical porn site Sssh.com, says. “A car is heavy machinery, so no getting frisky while driving. Tease if you please, but the driver’s eyes need to stay on the road until you’re safely parked.”

Another tip? Rowntree says be mindful of where you park. “Lover’s Lane may be cute in movies, but getting caught could mean real charges. If you’re off-road, check your surroundings: dry leaves and hot engine parts don’t mix, and forgetting the parking brake could send you rolling mid-thrust,” she says, adding that having a blanket handy helps protect your seats (and your dignity in case anyone catches you in the act.

Sexologist Marla Renee Stewart, MA, CSE, sexpert for Lovers sexual wellness brand and retailer, says it’s also important to be realistic about space and comfort, noting that not all cars are created equal when it comes to sex. “If you’re tall or plus-size (like me!), squeezing into a compact vehicle just isn’t ideal. The bigger the car, the more room you have to move, experiment with positions, and enjoy the experience without cramping your style—or your limbs.”

Stewart also makes the point that car sex needn’t just be partnered sex either. “If you need a break from your partner, kids, or everyday chaos, turn your car into a private pleasure pod,” she recommends. “Bring your favorite toy, queue up some sexy tunes or a steamy video, and treat yourself to some quality solo time. Sometimes the best getaway is the one you give yourself.”

Ultimately, says Rowntree, when it comes to car sex, it helps to return to the carefree attitude of adolescence. “Don’t overthink it—go with what feels good and have a sense of humor. Car sex is all about spontaneity and fun. So next time you hear ‘I’ll pick you up’ or ‘let’s drive somewhere,’ it might come with a wink and a wild new memory.”

The 7 Best Car Sex Positions

Keep reading for our favorite, expert-approved car sex positions to get your gears moving.

At SheKnows, we recognize that not all penetrating partners are male and not all receiving partners are female. For the sake of this article, the experts we spoke to referred to penetrating partners as men and receiving partners as women.

Originally published February 2016.

For the actor, it’s a cause with personal meaning. Diggs’ younger sister, Christian, was diagnosed with schizophrenia in her late 20s, and today, the siblings work with Bristol Myers Squibb on the “Live Your PosSCZible” campaign to not only raise awareness about schizophrenia but also help create possibilities for those living with it.

The pair co-hosted an LA talent event featuring the schizophrenia community, and Diggs says to SheKnows that he’s excited for people to see how “well-rounded, artistic, and multi-layered folks are who are diagnosed with schizophrenia.”

Per NIMH, schizophrenia is a serious mental condition that affects 2.4 million adults in the US alone. It can come with hallucinations, delusions, and disordered thinking that could heavily affect daily functioning. It can be impairing, but it doesn’t have to define you — and that’s what this sibling duo wants to remind everyone.

“It was a wonderful example of just how these folks are not letting the diagnosis define them. I saw these people on stage, and they were brilliant artists as opposed to people struggling and dealing with schizophrenia. I saw that side of them, that facet, and it was really eye-opening,” Diggs says. “I’m grateful. I’m continuing to learn and my eyes continue to be open wider and wider as far as what life with these differences has in store.”

Is it any surprise to fans that during his chat with SheKnows, he answered each question so thoughtfully, pondering every word he uttered to make sure people truly felt what he was saying. Whether it was talking about what he learned through his sister’s experiences, his own journey with mental health, or even talking about the lessons he’s teaching his teen son, Diggs spoke about everything with such care.

His words are a reminder that we all need to be gentle with people, including ourselves.

Diggs spoke with SheKnows about mental health, parenting his biracial son, and what he wants people to know about the schizophrenia community.

When asked what he wished people knew more about the schizophrenia community, Diggs responds that he wants people to know “that there is a community.” He says, “Because I know when my sister was diagnosed, both my sister and I found ourselves feeling alone. It’s very easy to fall back and kind of go inwards as opposed to being made aware that there are others out there who have similar struggles. I can see my sister just kind of relaxing, realizing, and being reminded that there are others out there who have similar situations. That’s something that really counts.”

As you can imagine, Diggs and his sister also experienced the racial disparity in the schizophrenia community, and the mental health community at large. Per RTOR, Black American adults are 20 percent more likely to experience serious mental health problems, and more than 80 percent of Black Americans are very concerned about the stigma, discouraging them from seeking treatment.

When it comes to breaking the stigmas, Diggs’ advice is simple: “Just do the research!” He says, “For me, it was just being exposed, having the courage to ignore my initial thoughts of pulling away.”

But he also wants people to know that it isn’t easy. But luckily, “it takes work, and it’s another thing that people need to realize,” he says. “It’s not gonna be easy. I think that’s part of life and I feel proud of my sister and myself because my whole family knows that we’re in it… No matter how we or other people may think it should end, we’re in there [and] that’s what feels really good.”

Diggs himself has tough days when it comes to maintaining his mental health. “That’s an ongoing experience as well because a lot of times, I will convince myself that I am okay but then my body will just shut down. So it’s something that I’m still kind of learning. Meditating helps, breathing helps. Creating boundaries and setting yourself up to succeed, whatever that is. It’s kind of forcing yourself to check in, but then also being patient with yourself.”

While he’s teaching himself better practices every day, he’s doing the same with his teen son, Walker Nathaniel, whom Diggs shares with ex Idina Menzel. Being a teen in 2025 isn’t easy, but Diggs is helping his son along the way, including explaining schizophrenia and other mental health conditions.

“I’m here, just exposing him,” he says. “I tell him what’s going on and how it goes down, how everything goes down, what my sister is feeling, and how she felt. Just giving him the blow-by-blow as I experience it, just so I can dispel any images that he may have seen on television or whatnot. And also making sure that he knows that everybody’s situation is different. I think it can be easy to be exposed to one kind of specific idea and then think that everything else following that is the same, and that’s not the case.”

The Private Practice alum added, “He’s a teen, so I can only I can only say so much to him before I get my cool card revoked. Just letting him know that everybody’s different and to not make assumptions, just listen to people, and try to be as supportive as possible before passing judgment.”

Along with helping him navigate mental health, Diggs is also working hard to make sure Walker feels seen, protected, and empowered. Diggs reflected that with most things in parenting, it’s “an everyday experience.”

“This is one thing that I’m sure about: the moment I think I have it figured out, I know I don’t. So I do my best to kind of be in the moment and trust my experiences. I just gotta live with what happens afterwards where we’re all doing the best we can. The way I was raised and the situation and the issues that that I had to deal with are completely different for him,” he explains. “He’s biracial. So already, he’s coming into the game with different kind of different rules. But he’s also a different person than I am, he’s built differently.”

What does he mean by differently? Well, Digg explains, “He’s far more confident. I went through a nerdy awkward stage, and he’s just mister cool dude. I’m dealing with him as he did and doing the best to kind of long listen as opposed to teach and listen. But if there are moments when I can kind of use my experiences to help, I try and I think most importantly, it’s just the support, love, and attention.”

To fellow parents of teens, Diggs recommends being “patient with themselves and to be patient with your kid.”

Say it louder for the people in the back!

When it comes down to it, kids need love, support, attention, and, as Diggs says, both parents and teens need another attribute for a happy home. He says to fellow parents of teens that they need to be “patient with themselves and to be patient with your kid.”

“There are times when you try to be in the moment and every situation is different, but make sure that the child knows you’re there… There are certain times when teens need to be kind of coaxed and then other times when you say, ‘Okay. When you wanna say something, I’m here,'” he says. “I think it’s important that they know that you’re there to support them, no matter what.”

ADHD is getting a lot of attention these days.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neuro-developmental disorder that affects both children and adults. Historically, ADHD (previously referred to as attention-deficit disorder, or ADD) was primarily associated with childhood and especially boys, but over the years, research has shed light on the persistence of symptoms into adulthood. 

While the manifestations of ADHD may vary, it often involves challenges in maintaining attention, impulsive behavior, and hyperactivity. Adults with ADHD might find themselves starting new tasks before finishing a previous one or misplacing things constantly. They could also enter task paralysis and be very still, which is quite the opposite of what many associate with ADHD. What living with ADHD is really like can be hard to understand for those who haven’t experienced it.

People with ADHD may struggle with maintaining attention during conversations or while engaging in activities that require sustained mental effort. They may find it challenging to complete projects or meet deadlines due to difficulties with planning and organizing. Adults with ADHD may also experience impulsivity, leading to impulsive decision-making, interrupting others, or difficulty waiting their turn, per the Mayo Clinic.

As with any condition, those who think they might have ADHD, should talk to their doctor about a screening and potential treatment plans. There are a lot of communities, organizations, and celebrities working hard to destigmatize ADHD, and these celebrities with ADHD are helping to shine a light on what life with this disorder is like.

A version of this post was originally published in 2023.

Difficulty keeping an erection sufficient for penetration is referred to as Erectile Dysfunction, or ED for short. Here’s the thing: this is a pretty normal issue, whether it happens just once or numerous times in a row. People of all sexes experience difficulty with arousal, and it’s inevitable that this comes up during intimacy. Issues with arousal are unrelated to how explosively sexy your relationship is or how much you love each other — sometimes there’s just no lift off for a variety of reasons. 

That said, you’re not doomed to figure this out on your own. To help your partner address their ED, it’s crucial to discover the cause of it — so get ready to communicate. Here’s what might be preventing them from getting hard and how to address it.

There are sometimes physical causes at play.

There is a whole host of physical health issues that can lead to ED, explains Dr. Alex Chinks, Boston-based licensed clinical psychologist and sexologist. These could include:

ED can even be an early symptom of current or future heart disease, Dr. Chinks says.

The first thing Dr. Chinks asks her ED patients: “When was your last physical?” — in order to rule out these medical causes. “My next question is about alcohol and drug use,” Dr. Chinks continues. “Drinking is the largest culprit of ED in men under the age of 40. And any recreational or prescription drugs can bring about ED as a side effect.”

Maybe it’s all mental.

ED gets a lot more complicated when it comes to psychological causes, because humans are emotional, sensitive, insecure creatures (yes, all of us!). Your significant other might have an image in their mind of how sex should look and how they should perform — but when real life doesn’t meet their expectations, this can lead to stress and going limp as a physical reaction. Your partner might also lose an erection due to reasons ranging from anxiety to big life changes. Depression in general can dampen sex drive and increase the chance that erection loss keeps occurring. (Frustratingly, antidepressants can lower libido and lead to ED as well.)

“I often say that one’s sex life is a window into their non-sexual lives,” Dr. Chinks says. That means if there’s a lot going on internally, ED and other sexual issues can come as a result.

Or there’s a sexual dysfunction present.

“Our sexual response cycle typically follows a pathway of desire-arousal-excitement-orgasm,” Dr. Chinks says, where erections are a sign of arousal. “If your partner is experiencing low desire (or libido)” — the first step in the process — “then they may not be able to move into the arousal zone.” Sometimes you’re just not feeling that horny, and that’s OK. But on the chance that there is sexual dysfunction at play, a doctor’s visit never hurts to figure out what’s up.

6 ways to deal with ED in a relationship

You can still have a satisfying sex life when a partner is experiencing ED — we promise. Here are a few strategies to get you there:

Get creative. Keep in mind that erections are not going to make or break your sex life. And for most people with a clit, penetration is not even needed for pleasure. Especially if you care a lot about your partner, there are other ways to satisfy, and sex consist of a whole range of behaviors. Try mutual masturbation or playing with toys while centering other erogenous zones, like the clitoris, anus, or prostate.

Play with it soft. Marriage and family therapist Brooke Norton says that playing with a soft penis can be enjoyable for everyone. “A soft penis is just that — it doesn’t mean anything about masculinity or being a good lover,” she tells SheKnows. “And we also have hands, mouths, and the rest of our bodies to use for pleasure.” The possibilities are endless, whether there’s an erection present or not.

Take a break. Dr. Emily Morse, Doctor of Human Sexuality and host of the popular Sex With Emily podcast, recommends a tactic in the same vein. “Try taking a break from [penetrative] sex for a bit – go back to kissing, have him go down on you and touch each other’s bodies, have a snack — whatever it is, the mood can come back!” 

Redefine what sex means to you. If you and your partner are still feeling totally lost about what to do next, there are a few things to try when working past ED. “I often encourage folks to think about what sex is about,” Norton says. “Is it really about staying hard? Sex is about sharing pleasure and enjoyment, not necessarily about parts behaving in a particular way. Some of us were taught that there is foreplay and then penetration is the main event.” Instead, think of every part of a sexual encounter as sex. There’s no need to stick to a script when there are so many broad ways to express yourself sexually.

Talk to an expert. Oftentimes, a sex therapist will also be able to come up with suggestions and assist with matters of ED. It’s important for a professional to give attention to individual stories and unique circumstances that brought people to the point where things are a problem. Norton says, “I once worked with a cis, hetero couple who really prioritized her penetration, so I asked them to consider using a toy for this purpose. It turned out that he enjoyed using the toy on her so much that he was able to get an erection.”

Be patient and communicate. Overall, the best way you can help your partner is to be understanding and patient, and to not get upset in any way (remember, this isn’t your fault — or theirs). In our very patriarchal culture, it can feel like a partner’s erection is inherently related to your appearance, sexual prowess, and desirability, but that’s not true. Keep in mind that ED can feel embarrassing and your partner can feel like they’re taking a hit to their self-esteem as well, so just try to be the most supportive person you can. Being able to talk about and work through this will set you up for an even stronger relationship. 

A version of this story was published May 2020.

Doing some research to spice up your sex life? Check out our sex position bucket list below: