Sexual abstinence: what is it and why is it practiced?

When we talk about sexual abstinence we mean not having sex of any kind. However, it is true that many people understand abstinence as not having relationships based on intercourse. Therefore, it is a concept that has a different meaning for each population group.

But why would anyone decide to be sexually abstinent? Well, sometimes, if you do not have a partner and you do not intend to maintain relationships with someone with whom you do not have this link, then abstinence will be present.

Another of the circumstances in which sexual abstinence can be practiced is for religious reasons. This is known as celibacy and people who hold these beliefs wish, of their own free will, to remain virgins. Abstinence goes to the point of not masturbating.

By last, sexual abstinence can be practiced to prevent pregnancy, contract a sexually transmitted disease or infection (STI), or wait to be ready to lose your virginity. This is interesting for young people, as the pressures to lose their virginity can have consequences if they are not careful.

What is the effectiveness of abstinence?

The effectiveness of abstinence is very high if done well. In the event that it is carried out completely, that is, no sexual contact is maintained with other people, the chances of contracting an STI or going through an unwanted pregnancy are nil. However, what happens when abstinence is not total and only involves the lack of intercourse?

In these cases, if there are other types of sexual practices, special care must be taken. It can be difficult to resist vaginal penetration by both members.

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What can be done in sexual abstinence?

When sexual abstinence is not total, there may be another series of practices that allow a couple to enjoy sex without problems. For example, anal sex is a good way to practice it without risk of pregnancy. But it must be taken into account that diseases can be transmitted.

Another practice that can be carried out, even if there is sexual abstinence, is masturbation. You can use your hands to give pleasure to the other person. The best thing about this practice is that it is risk-free. It is a safe method.

During sexual abstinence you can also give sensual massages, caresses, kisses and anything else that leaves room for the imagination. Therefore, it will be up to each person to decide whether it will be complete or partial.

Problems associated with this method

Not everything is positive when we talk about this type of sexual abstinence. There are some things you need to pay attention to.

So, we are going to talk about 4 of the big problems that usually occur when a person is abstinent. Taking them into account will allow us to assess the advantages and disadvantages.

1. Stress and anxiety

The first of the problems of sexual abstinence is anxiety and stress. Sex produces relaxation and it is clear that it is a basic need.

Withdrawal can lead to frustration by having to quell the desire, appease it, and even avoid touching (masturbating). Therefore, it must be taken into account that there will be stress.

2. Decreased sexual desire

The second of the problems we can find ourselves with is the decrease in desire. If the body gets used to not having intercourse or receiving pleasure, it may come to appease this basic need.

The desire to have sex can be difficult to recover and cause a great feeling of frustration.

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3. Weakening of the bond with the couple

The third of the problems is that the bond with the couple can weaken. Both people have to be sexual abstinent so that this does not happen and, even so, the lack of desire (or the decrease in it) can raise doubts about whether you really want to be with the other person or not. Therefore, communication in the relationship is going to be very important.

4. Increased risk of erectile dysfunction

The fourth problem is that there is an increased risk of erectile dysfunction. This has nothing to do with a stress or self-esteem problem, but simply sexual abstinence in men also causes loss of desire. At the time of resuming sexual intercourse, erectile dysfunction will be more present.

Sexual abstinence should not be a light decision

With all this, knowing the advantages and disadvantages of sexual abstinence, it is clear that it ensures that there will not be a pregnancy and that no STIs will be contracted. However, using contraception can be valid, although it is clear that accidents can happen.

Each person is free to decide. Regardless of the decision that is made, communication with the couple is essential.