Women, sex and the internet

In just a short span of time, the internet has become 'home' to tens of millions of women who sign on for connection, education and titillation. Women are playing an increasingly prominent role in cyberspace as visitors, purveyors of goods and services, customers and featured performers. This article will explore the various ways in which the world wide web provides educational opportunities and support for women, opportunities for developing and exploring romantic and sexual relationships and an entrée into new erotic worlds and marketplaces. The virtues of the internet - the democratization of sexual access and the opportunities afforded women of any age and physical condition - will be highlighted, as well as the potential risks associated with its ready availability and ease of access. The downsides of the internet, namely the possibility of misrepresentation, misinformation and isolated instances of misogyny will be reviewed as well.