What are the benefits of sexual abstinence?
– Theoretically, abstinence is the most effective contraceptive method.
– It is a great opportunity to get creative with how you share intimacy with your partner and show affection to each other. There are several other ways of doing this including nonsexual activities like taking romantic walks, enjoying intimate dinners, and exchanging gifts, among others.
– It does not cost a thing.
– It does not have any side effects.
– It may provide a couple with an opportunity to get to know each other better and, consequently, improve the quality of their relationship (6).
What are the disadvantages of abstinence?
– It’s high effort. You have to have a lot of control, and it only works if you do not have vaginal sex (but you can have oral or anal sex).
– It takes discipline and commitment. Saying “not right now” only works as a contraceptive method if you do it consistently.
– It requires good communication skills with your partner. If you are dating or in a relationship, you will need to be able to tell your partner what is okay and what is not. This means you need to be comfortable speaking to your partner about how far you wish to go in your sexual exploration.
– It requires you to have a supportive partner. If you are in a relationship, you both need to be okay with not having vaginal sex. But remember, saying “not right now” does not mean you are not allowed to have fun.
– It can be difficult to sustain.
– It’s hard to stick to the plan if you are drunk.
– It does not always offer protection from STIs.
