First, it helps to clarify what people usually mean by “having sex.” Many assume “having sex” means penile-vaginal intercourse, but there are many sexual acts that don’t involve penetration: oral sex, rimming (oral-anal contact), mutual masturbation, genital rubbing, and skin-to-skin contact in sensitive areas. These acts can still carry risk for certain STIs (sexually transmitted infections, also called STDs when they’re causing disease).
Continue reading FAQ: Can you get an STD without having sex?