Sexually Active

Sexually active means you’ve had intimate physical contact with someone involving parts of your body that would be covered by a swimsuit. Healthcare providers use this term when talking to you about your sexual health and history. While this term might sound simple, it can have several meanings. And they can vary depending on who’s asking about your sexual history and why.

If sex-related questions make you uncomfortable, you’re far from alone. Your provider asks these questions because when it comes to healthcare, details matter. That includes details that may feel deeply personal.

If you’re uncomfortable answering questions about your sex life and sexual health, tell your provider. You can also ask why they want to know and what they’ll do with the information. You’re the one who decides where your boundaries are. Your provider’s job is to care for you and respect your choices without judging you.

The different meanings of “sexually active”

In general, activities that count as being sexually active include:

• Anal sex (either penetrating or receiving penetration)
• Oral sex (giving or receiving) of any kind
• Penile-vaginal sex
• Touching someone else’s body or someone touching your body in a sexual way

Sometimes, timing is part of the question. Your provider may ask only about your sexual activity within the last three months or 12 months.

But when in doubt, it doesn’t hurt to ask your provider what they mean. They can clarify the question and tell you more about why they’re asking.

Does masturbation count as being sexually active?

It depends. Some experts do consider masturbation as being sexually active. Others might not count it unless it’s with a sexual partner. Your provider can answer whether it counts as being sexually active in your particular case.

Why do healthcare providers ask if I’m sexually active?

Knowing if you’re sexually active is important info for your provider. Your answer helps them know if they should offer certain types of medical care. Examples include reproductive health screenings, sexually transmitted infection testing or vaccines for diseases like HPV.

Whether you’re sexually active can also be a key clue if you have an unknown health issue. Many conditions linked to your sexual health can cause symptoms that seem unrelated.

Can a doctor tell if you are sexually active?

No. Despite plenty of myths still making the rounds, your provider can’t say you’re sexually active with total certainty on their own. The results of a physical or pelvic exam or lab tests might mean it’s very likely you’re sexually active. But asking you is the only way your provider can be sure.

Providers also ask if you’re sexually active because there are important follow-up questions if you say yes. Healthcare providers call those questions the eight Ps. They’re key to updating the sexual history part of your medical records.

The eight Ps are:

1. Preferences: This means your sexual orientation and who you find sexually attractive.
2. Partners: For this, your provider will ask about the number and type of partners you have. “Type” includes their gender, sex and the nature of your relationship (casual, committed, etc.).
3. Practices: This revolves around the types of sexual activity you engage in (like anal, oral or vaginal sex).
4. Pleasure and pain: Asking about these can help your provider find sexual health issues. These might be issues you hadn’t heard of or were afraid to ask about.
5. Protection from STIs: These revolve around safe sex practices and preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
6. Past history of STIs: Your provider needs to know about these in case they affect your health now or in the future.
7. Pregnancy: Your provider will ask about whether you might be, are or could become pregnant. Depending on your answer, they may recommend using or avoiding certain medical treatments.
8. Partner violence: Your provider will ask about this and may be able to offer support or resources if you need them.

Until what age can people be sexually active?

There’s no limit. A 2016 study from the United Kingdom found that nearly 1 in 3 men and 1 in 7 women over 80 are still sexually active.

How can I be more sexually active?

For some people, a low sex drive is what keeps them from being sexually active. That can happen because of physical, mental and emotional reasons. If low sex drive is a concern for you, it’s a good idea to talk to your primary care provider. They can help you start with simple changes that might help. And if needed, they can refer you to a specialist who can help you further.