What is abstinence?
- Abstinence is not having sex.
- Abstinence means waiting until you are ready before having sex.
- Even if you’ve had sex before, you can always decide not to have sex now.
How does it work?
- Partners agree to not have sex.
- Abstinence can be different for everyone, it may be some kissing, hugging and sexual touching
- Abstinence may be 100% effective in preventing pregnancy and protecting against sexually transmitted infections.
- In order to protect yourself against most STI’s, there can be no exchange of body fluids or skin-to-skin genital contact.
What are the benefits of abstinence?
- Abstinence does not have any side effects.
- Abstinence is free
- Abstinence prevents pregnancy
- Abstinence can prevent STI’s
Why would a person choose abstinence over sex?
- A person may want to wait until they are ready for a sexual relationship
- A person may want to wait to find the right partner.
- It may support a person’s moral or religious beliefs and values.
- Abstinence could help get over a break up.
- Practicing abstinence may be advisable during an illness or infection.
- Saying no is not always easy, so before you get into an intimate situation, make a plan for sticking with your decision not to have sex.
When going out in a group or on a date always remember to:
- Think ahead and have a way out
- Leave the situation if you feel uncomfortable
- Ask a friend to accompany you
- Carry enough money for a cab or bus ride home when you go out either in a group or on a date
Sharing, caring, talking, laughing, getting through the tough times – these are some of the ingredients of a good relationship. Figuring out where sex fits into all this is tricky.
If you have questions about any of this sex stuff – ask! Your parents, uncle, sister, counsellor or partner can all help you find the answers.
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