Dear Shimmy,

Good question! The phrase "sexually active" can be used to describe anyone who is involved in a wide range of sex play. It includes outercourse (touching, kissing, or manual stimulation), oral sex, and vaginal and anal intercourse. Some people think that "sexually active" only refers to penile-vaginal intercourse, but sex scientists, sexuality educators, counselors, legal authorities, and increasing numbers of other people realize that there are lots of other ways to have sex.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.