Sexually active refers to any kind of sexual contact between partners that involves the genitals, including kissing, mutual masturbation, oral sex, anal sex, and vaginal intercourse. It is not limited to penetrative sex, but also includes different forms of manual stimulation, genital-to-genital contact, rimming, and other types of oral sex. Masturbation is generally not considered sexual activity from a medical perspective because it does not involve skin-to-skin contact with another person. Being sexually active means that you are engaged in any type of sexual activity that carries a risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pregnancy. Doctors ask if you are sexually active to determine whether you are at risk for STIs and/or pregnancy and to provide you with the best possible care.