Abstinence
What is abstinence?
Abstinence is a concept that varies from one person to another.
- For some teens, abstinence is choosing freely not to have intimate relationships that involve sex. Some teens refrain from having any type of sexual relationships, because they’re afraid that they might be tempted to go too far.
- For others, abstinence is choosing not to have full sexual intercourse, meaning that there is no vaginal or anal penetration.
- Some choose abstinence for one day, one month or any period of time.
- Certain religious groups see abstinence as waiting after marriage to have sex, or simply postponing sex.
- Some use abstinence all the time, others use it on occasion.
- This term also applies to people who have been sexually active, but have decided to stop having sexual intercourse. This situation is usually referred to as secondary abstinence or secondary virginity.
Abstinence can take on many forms, but it should always be a personal choice. Choosing not to have sex is your choice, every time. You also have the right to determine what abstinence means for you.
Abstinence usually requires a person to be highly motivated, in control of him- or herself, and to have good communication skills.
Abstinence is an excellent contraceptive, 100% effective if there is no vaginal penetration and without ejaculation outside the vagina. It also protects against STI’s if you avoid vaginal, anal and oral sex.
Why abstinence?
- Because of your spiritual or religious beliefs.
- To prevent an undesired pregnancy
- To protect yourself against sexually transmitted infections (STI’s)
- Because you don’t feel ready
- Because you want to wait for the right person
- Because you don’t feel ready to go through with it with a new partner.
Precautions
It is always a good idea to have a contraceptive at hand, just in case. You never know when you’ll find someone you’re ready to share your body with, or when the mood will be just right, and when you’ll be ready to give up abstinence. We are, after all, only human and it is impossible to say that it is 100% sure that you will not change your mind. Having a condom or some other contraceptive on hand is never a bad idea.
How much does it cost?
What are the Pros and Cons?
The Pros:
- Abstinence is free and available anytime, anywhere for everyone.
- It is 100% effective against pregnancy and STI’s. Remember that oral sex can lead to STI’s.
- It could encourage you to develop relationships based on something other that sex
- It just feels like the right thing to do at the moment.
The Cons:
- If you change your mind in the heat of the moment, it’s possible that you might not have contraceptives available. This increases the risks of pregnancy or STI’s.
Extra
If you want to learn more, you can go to these websites: