There are many ways to define abstinence. Generally, abstinence means not having sex (engaging in sexual activity with another person). When used to prevent unintended pregnancy, abstinence means avoiding vaginal intercourse.
How does it work?
Using abstinence to prevent pregnancy requires open communication between you and your partner(s). It also requires self-control.
It means avoiding contact between the penis and vagina. This includes preventing pre-ejaculate or ejaculate from coming into contact with the vagina.
Why choose abstinence?
There is no right or wrong time to make this decision, even if you have been sexually active before.
You may choose to be abstinent for several reasons:
Not feeling ready for sexual activity.
Recognizing that it is not right for you at this time.
Being ill, injured, or recovering from a medical and/or traumatic event.
Based on religious, cultural, or personal beliefs.
And many more personal reasons.
How effective is it?
Total abstinence can prevent pregnancy and STBBIs. However, it requires self-control.
Abstinence as a part of sexual health education
It is important to teach all aspects of sexual health, not just about abstinence. This is called teaching comprehensive sexual health education. Providing education that includes information about abstinence as a choice supports a person’s right to make informed decisions.
An abstinence-only approach neglects to provide valuable information. It is also not mindful of youth who have already been sexually active.
Sexual health education programs that teach abstinence only:
Do not make people wait to have sex.
Do not reduce the risk of pregnancy or STBBIs.
Can be very stigmatizing and traumatizing for some.
