Continuous abstinence is 100 percent effective in preventing pregnancy. It also prevents sexually transmitted infections.
Many religious groups endorse abstinence among unmarried people.
Any woman or man can abstain from sex play. Many do so at various times in their lives. Some choose to do so all their lives. Women and men often end their abstinence without being prepared to protect themselves against pregnancy or sexually transmitted infection. Sex play includes vaginal, oral, and anal intercourse as well as other activities that lead to sexual arousal.