SEXUAL HEALTH
Being sexually healthy not only involves your physical health, but also your attitude towards sexual relationships and sexuality. You yourself carry the biggest resposibility for your sexual health. It involves knowing your rights, protecting yourself and others, making responsible decisions and standing up for yourself.
The World Health Organization describes sexual health as:
“…a state of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being in relation to sexuality; it is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction or infirmity. Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination and violence. For sexual health to be attained and maintained, the sexual rights of all persons must be respected, protected and fulfilled.” (WHO, 2006a)
ABSTINENCE
ABSTINENCE
What is abstinence?
Abstinence simply means not having sex; it means refraining from sexual intercourse. For most people, abstinence is the absence of sexual contact altogether.
Wouldn’t it be embarrassing to say you’re a virgin?
That’s not true. Remember, you’re in charge of your own life— and should be proud for sticking to your Values and morals.
Benefits of abstinence
Remaining abstinent as a teenager means that you will be less likely to:
- Contract a sexually transmitted disease
- Become infertile
- Develop cancer of the cervix
- Experience an unplanned pregnancy
- Experience emotional and psychological challenges related to relationships that involve sexual activity
How can I be successful at abstinence?
- Do things with friends or in groups
- Go on double dates or invite another friend
- Minimize physical affection that could lead to passion and desire, making it harder to abstain from sexual intercourse
- Avoid situations where you are alone with your partner
How can my partner get to know me if we don’t have sex?
Intimacy can be developed through a variety of means such as:
- Talking and listening
- Sharing joys, hurts, dreams, goals, wishes and other aspects of life
- Honesty and respect for one another
Download related content on:
Discuss this further on our sexual health forum page