Dear Baseballkid,

Sexual abstinence is defined in different ways by different people, organizations, cultures, and religions. For most, the concept of abstinence does not include any type of sexual activity with another person. This is the definition that we use.

Some people disagree, and they use the word "abstinence" to mean going without vaginal intercourse. Many other people use the word "outercourse" to refer to abstinence from vaginal or anal intercourse while allowing other forms of sex play.

Abstinence that does not include any type of sex play is 100 percent effective in preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.

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.