Not everyone gets to gossip over their most recent hookup à la Sex and the City with a designer bag in one hand and a cosmo in the other. But even without such luxuries, it's important to talk to your friends about sex. In fact, research shows that openly communicating about personal topics like these can actually bring you closer to the people around you, in addition to providing opportunities for validation and, frankly, fun. But with that being said, many people are still taught that sex is something that should be kept private, making conversations like these seem intimidating or a little awkward, even amongst close friends.

Thankfully, short of breaking out into a terribly out-of-tune rendition of "Let's Talk About Sex," there's no wrong way to go about these discussions, as long as they're positive, open, and empowering. Plus, sometimes it's just nice to be able to say what you don't really feel comfortable voicing to anyone else. Whether you're terrified of oversharing, looking for people to talk to, or just in need of some sex positive conversations, here are six benefits to talking about sex that will make you want to text the groupchat ASAP. Cosmos all around!