By Girls, For Girls - A Project by and for Teen Girls

Abstinence

Description: Abstinence is choosing to avoid having sex for an extended period of time. However, sex can be defined in very different ways for different people. For example, penis-in-vagina intercourse, oral sex, anal sex or even kissing and touching can constitute as sex. One's definition of sex determines which sexual activities one will avoid. It is important to keep in mind that it is okay to go through periods of abstinence. Whether or not to have sex or participate in other sexual activities is your decision and yours alone. However, if one does decide to practice abstinence, it is advisable that he or she discuss this decision with another person that he or she respects. It may also be helpful to pray or meditate about one's decision, talk it over with one's pastor or attend a sex ed program or an organized support group.

Advantages:: This method is available to everyone.; Effective at preventing pregnancy and infection; Can be started at any time during one's life; Encourages many people to build relationships in other
ways besides having sex; May make you feel good about yourself
Disadvantages:: If one decides to have sex in the heat of the moment, he
or she may not have a form of birth control ready.; Some people find not having sex for extended periods of
time very frustrating.
Effectiveness:: This method is 100% effective if one is consistent in
avoiding having sex.
Time Constraints:: None
Location:: Abstinence comes from one's own decision to avoid
having sex; it cannot be found at any particular location.
Cost:: Free