Frot

Frot, derived from the French word 'frottage' meaning 'rubbing,' is a sexual practice involving genital-to-genital contact between two people with penises. The practice typically involves pressing or rubbing the penises together, often with the addition of lubricant, and may include wrapping one or both hands around both penises simultaneously.

As a form of non-penetrative sex, frot occupies a distinctive position in discussions about sexual health and risk reduction. Compared to anal intercourse, frot carries significantly lower risk of HIV and other STI transmission, as it does not involve penetration of mucous membranes. This has led some sexual health advocates to promote frot as a safer-sex alternative, particularly in the context of HIV prevention among men who have sex with men.

The practice has a dedicated advocacy community, with some proponents arguing that frot has been marginalized in gay male culture in favor of anal intercourse. Advocates contend that the emphasis on penetrative sex in both heterosexual and homosexual contexts overlooks the pleasure and intimacy available through non-penetrative practices. This perspective challenges what proponents describe as 'phallocentric' or 'anal-centric' views of male homosexual activity.

Physiologically, frot can provide intense stimulation through the friction and pressure of direct genital contact. The practice allows for face-to-face intimacy, which many practitioners value for its emotional connection. Various positions can be employed, including face-to-face lying, standing, or seated configurations.

While frot carries lower STI risk than penetrative sex, it is not entirely risk-free. Skin-to-skin genital contact can transmit herpes, HPV, syphilis, and other infections that spread through skin contact rather than fluid exchange. Partners with open sores or cuts on their genitals face elevated risks.

The term 'frot' is a shortened form of 'frottage,' which derives from the French verb 'frotter,' meaning 'to rub.' While frottage in broader usage refers to any form of sexual rubbing, 'frot' has been specifically adopted to describe penis-to-penis contact between men.

The practice itself predates any specific terminology, with depictions of male genital-to-genital contact appearing in ancient Greek art, particularly on pottery. In ancient Greek culture, intercrural sex (sex between the thighs) was a well-documented and socially accepted practice between male partners, and genital rubbing was likely a related practice.

The modern term and its associated advocacy movement emerged primarily through the work of Bill Weintraub, who beginning in the late 1990s promoted frot as a natural and fulfilling form of male-male sexual expression. The advocacy movement positioned frot as both a valid sexual practice in its own right and as a safer-sex strategy in the context of HIV/AIDS. Online communities and forums have since expanded discussion of frot as a distinct sexual practice.