If the goal of abstinence is to avoid any sexually transmitted infections, then any contact between oral and genital areas is also likely to be unacceptable unless barrier protection, such as a condom, is used. Many young people are saying no to sex before marriage. They are choosing abstinence as an issue of personal integrity and an expression of strong self-esteem. Avoiding premature sexual relationships may help you avoid painful emotional situations for which you may not yet be prepared. You can also avoid unwanted pregnancy and potentially damaging or life-threatening diseases.
Successful abstinence requires education and preparation.
You and your partner need to discuss and agree on what you mean by abstinence. You should also know how to avoid situations that promote sexual intimacy, such as drinking alcohol or being alone with a possible sexual partner. And it is important to consider how to get out of such a situation if it occurs unexpectedly. Others feel that preparation is mandatory, so that if you and your partner unexpectedly find yourselves giving up abstinence, condoms are available to protect against pregnancy and infection. The choice of abstinence is a very important and very personal decision.