MANILA, Philippines - Dr. Laura Berman, one of America's leading experts in female sexual health, challenges common preconceptions against sexual intercourse.

In her website, drlauraberman.com, the best-selling author and the renowned sex therapist observed that most people tend to rely on these myths instead of seeking more information or asking from a doctor since they don't feel comfortable talking about sex.

Here are some sexual preconceptions that Berman said are not true at all:

1. 'Nice girls' don't enjoy sex. According to Berman, the idea that women only submit to sex to keep their partners happy is "ridiculous." She noted that only women have organs meant solely for sexual pleasure, which is the clitoris.

2. You can't get pregnant the first time you have sex. On the contrary, Berman said women are not exempted from pregnancy when they experience sex for the first time. A baby may be formed at any time as long as the woman is fertile.

3. You can't get pregnant on your period. People usually believe that this is true. Berman, however, said a woman can still get get pregnant while on her period, although it is quite rare (since fertility is low during this time).

4. All women reach orgasm through sex. This is not true as well. According to Berman, only 30% of women reach orgasm during intercourse as they need extra stimulation and foreplay.

5. The best sex lasts all night. Citing a recent study, Berman said most people believe that the ideal length of intercourse lasts from 7 to 13 minutes.

6. Men who suffer from premature ejaculation are few and far in between, and it is a real cause for concern. According to Berman, premature ejaculation is the most commonly reported sexual dysfunction for men. "With a little practice, most men can train themselves to last longer, and some find medication to be helpful as well," she said.

7. A woman's sex performance peaks in her forties, while a man's peaks in his teens. Berman said sex hormones are usually the highest for women at around age 30, while men usually have the most testosterone at 17 years old. But in general, she said both men's and women's sex performance will peak when they feel most comfortable with themselves and their sexuality.

8. Older people have less sex and/or less enjoyable sex. A study has shown have a majority of men and women have active sex lives past the age of 40 and well into their eighties, Berman said.

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References:
Everyday Health
Dr. Laura Berman's website