Is non-penetrative sex still considered sex?

Whether or not you consider non-penetrative sex to actually be sex depends on your own personal view of sex. Some people say 'yes' as they claim any sexual activity should count as sex, whereas other people say 'no' because actual sex is defined as penetration.

Technically speaking, any kind of sexual act is considered to be sex, however only actual penetration of the vagina or anus with a penis is considered to be intercourse. All other types of non-penetrative sex are called "outercourse".

There could actually be a very simple explanation for your confusion between the terms intercourse and non-penetrative sex and what actually comes under each heading.

• Definition

First of all let's look at what the actual definition for non-penetrative sex is. It is defined as sexual activity that does not involve vaginal penetration, anal penetration or oral penetration.

Many people practice non-penetrative sex because the exchange of bodily fluids is extremely less likely than penetrative sex, which means that sexually-transmitted infections and pregnancy are much less likely to occur. This reason in particular was why gay men were encouraged to engage in non-penetrative sex after the AIDs outbreak in the 80s.

• Types of non-penetrative sex

Below are some examples of non - penetrative sex, however this list is not complete:

• Erotic massage - rubbing the partner all over, with or without the use of sensual oils
• Stimulation of the genitals using the hands
• Stimulation of the genitals using the feet
• Mammary intercourse

There are also two types of sexual activity that are "non exclusively" part of the non-penetrative sex category, these two are the use of fingers and oral sex because these do not usually involve penetration.

Colloquialisms such as dry humping and grinding are commonly used in society today.