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Abstinence is the most effective and healthiest choice for teens. If used every time you will avoid pregnancy as well as STIs. Abstinence means not participating in sexual activity.  Abstinence is 100% effective. 

 

 

Abstinence

 

Details

Good communication skills: You’ll need to be able to be assertive and speak your mind. It’s important to let your boyfriend/girlfriend know about your commitment to abstinence.

 

It takes discipline: In other words, making a commitment to abstinence, and sticking to it.

 

You’ve got support: Most teens are saying “not right now” to sex. But remember, that doesn’t mean you’re not allowed to have fun. There are lots of great things to do on a date! And taking the pressure to have sex off of a relationship can help you both to get to know each other better!

 

Cost

Free 

 

Usage

Tip #1: Avoid putting yourself in situations where it'll be hard to stick to your decision. You can spend lots of time together but have a goal for the time such as finishing a project or baking cookies or going on an outing with friends.  

Tip #2: Avoid alcohol and drugs as well—they can mess with your judgment.

Tip #3: Find people you can talk to about your decision and lean on their support.

Tip #4: Talk about your decision with him/her well before you're in the heat of the moment.

Tip #5: Be totally straightforward and be clear with him/her about your limits.

Tip #6: Be creative!  There are lots of fun things to do that don’t revolve around sex.

 

Side Effects

None.

 

If you don't have sex, you won't get pregnant.

 

Effectiveness

100% Effective

 

Side Effects

None

 

Effort

You will need to exercise self- control.  Self-control is a skill that will benefit you throughout your life.

 

How do I get it?

There's nothing to get—just the conviction to stick to it.

 

 

Quick Facts

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