Abstinence, Sexual decision making and Contraception Abstinence by definition is not doing something. Examples include: Abstaining from sweets, cell phone use, drugs. In Health Education and society in general, Abstinence usually specifically refers to not having sex. For a while, Abstinence decisions were growing. In recent years…a reverse trend has occurred as it has also been picked apart and changed.

Abstinence No Sexual Activity Meaning, No Sexual Intercourse, No fondling, No oral sex No Anal sex Basically, your partner never touches your Private or genital areas the only 100% effective way to ensure the prevention of Sexually Transmitted Diseases and un-wanted Pregnancy

Relative Abstinence = (sometimes no term is used) Although not usually used, There is a term known as Relative Abstinence = (sometimes no term is used) Used to mean No Vaginal Sexual Intercourse (no act of reproduction) Now means no penetation But, still willing to participate in other sexual activity including: Partner fondling This most likely will not get someone pregnant but can lead to Sexually Transmitted Diseases This really isn’t what the definition of Abstinence is Click the term to display its definition.

A few Benefits of Abstinence…. Never have to worry about unplanned pregnancy. Will not be faced with difficult decisions that are associated with unplanned pregnancy, such as teen marriage, adoption, or abortion. Are free to enjoy being young. Do not have to worry about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) Are making choices that is always legal. It is illegal for unmarried minors to engage in sexual activity.* Abstinence from sexual activity before marriage is the standard that is expected of all teens. It the only method that is 100 percent effective in preventing pregnancy, STDs, the sexual transmission of HIV, and emotional trauma associated with adolescent sexual activity.

A few Benefits of Abstinence…. Do not have to deal with the emotional consequences or reputations Can establish nonsexual closeness with a partner Can develop genuine feelings of love and trust. Can focus on setting and achieving their life goals and dreams.

Why are teens choosing to have sex that are? Generally speaking, according to recent surveys and ranked GIRLS BOYS “Taken advantage of” (most often while under influence of drugs or alcohol) (not forced) Peer Pressure Thought the person Loved them /looking for someone to love Want to Fit in with friends Thought that’s what couples do if they stay together Curious to see what it’s like Thought they were “ready” Wanting to fit in with friends Thought “that’s just what couples do”

NOT TOO LATE TO WAIT Secondary Abstinence aka Secondary Virginity aka “Born Again Virgin”

PROMISE RINGS

Sexual Decision Making Regardless if you are going to choose Abstinence or not, sexual decision making will occur throughout your teen years. Decisions include but are certainly not limited to: Having sex or “messing around” without a serious commitment Going into a “private” room What you will allow someone you just met to do You need to keep yourself out of potentially dangerous situations Click to show the correct answer.

Sexual Limitations Sexual Limitations are the limits you set for yourself on how far you are willing to go. Usually, they are set during long term relationships but should also be set for one’s personal decision making at all times. Once you set your sexual limitations, you need to make sure you stick to them by showing self control and positive refusal skills (ex. Going into a room alone at a party with someone you just met, not allowing your partner to do a “little too far”) Click to show the sample response. Accept all reasonable responses.

Abstinence vs other contraception If you are going to sex or participate in sexual activity, you need to compare the different choices out there. They can be placed into 4 categories: natural Barrier hormonal/chemical Surgical

Comparison of Contraception methods and their effectiveness in preventing Pregnancy

MORE DETAILS about birth control

How about a condom??? Male Condoms, the most used form of contraception for teens when used correctly, can be between 80-90% effective. They come in different styles including different colors, textures and flavors. Latex condoms with spermicidal lubricants are most effective in preventing HIV and un-wanted pregnancy but not as effective against other STD’s However….condoms have expiration dates, can come with defects, can be put on wrong, can leak, and can break.

But..I’m on the pill? Aren’t I safe Birth control pills, when used correctly, can regulate the menstrual cycle and allow for less severe menstruation times. They are between 85-99% effective if used correctly. HOWEVER, they do NOT protect at all against Sexually Transmitted disease and if a girl has sex when taking the final week of her pills, there is a high probability she will get pregnant

The bottom line……. Set yourself Sexual Limitations before you get into a situation. Keep yourself away from risky situations Remember that the ONLY 100% effective way to prevent un-wanted pregnancy and STD’s is ABSTINENCE If you are going to “mess around”, use appropriate contraception and choose only 1 partner