Abstinence

If you’re not ready to have sex, let us know if you need tools or resources on how to stand up for yourself when someone tries to pressure you to do something you don’t want to do.

What is Abstinence?

Abstinence means you don’t have sex. Some people think that means you don’t have vaginal sex. Others believe abstinence includes not having vaginal, oral, or anal sex.

It’s simple. If you don’t have sex, you won’t get pregnant. That takes commitment because having sex (vaginal intercourse) even once at the right time during a woman’s cycle can lead to an unplanned pregnancy. 

Anyone can be abstinent, no matter your age, gender, or whether you’ve had sex in the past. Abstinence works best when both partners agree not to have sex. Talk with your partner before the heat of the moment to decide what activities you will say “no” to.

  • Effectiveness: 100% effective against both pregnancy and STDs, as long as you don’t have vaginal, oral, or anal sex
  • Cost: $0
  • Side effects: none
  • Effort: You have to have commitment and control.
How it Works

Not having vaginal sex is the only sure way to prevent pregnancy because sperm and egg never meet. The only sure way to prevent pregnancy AND the spread of STls is to not have vaginal, oral, or anal sex.

Pros and Cons

There are many benefits to abstinence. Some people wait to have sex until they feel they are ready, some wait to find the right partner, and others want to focus on school, their job, or hobbies. Many people prefer to enjoy their partner’s company without dealing with a sexual relationship.

Avoiding having sex can be difficult for some people. If you plan to be abstinent but end up having sex, pregnancy can happen. Most people will have sex at some point in their lives. If you have sex and don’t want to get pregnant, use protection. If you have unprotected sex, emergency contraception (brand name- Plan B) can help prevent pregnancy up to 5 days after sex. The sooner Plan B is taken after unprotected sex, the more effective it is. 

NEED BIRTH CONTROL?

Contact us and ask how we can help!

At Access Esperanza Clinics, we offer opportunities and hope for people to plan their futures and stay healthy. You can count on us for quality, affordable, and confidential care at all of our health clinics.

Contact us!

Phone: 956-688-3700
Send Email: info@accessclinics.org

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The information provided on this site is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Please call Access Esperanza Clinics at 956-688-3700 to set an appointment at any of our clinics.

 

This website is supported by the Office of Population Affairs (OPA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $420 with 100 percent funded by OPA/OASH/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by OPA/OASH/HHS, or the U.S. Government. For more information, please visit OPA.hhs.gov.