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Abstinence-Only programs, Are they effective?

August 24, 2006

What is abstinence? Abstinence: 1. voluntary forbearance especially from sexual intercourse; 2. the act or practice of refraining from indulgence in an appetite, as for certain foods, drink, alcoholic beverages, drugs, or sex. Abstinence is to refrain from all types of sexual activity including vaginal sex, anal sex, oral sex, outercourse (dry sex or grinding), mutual masturbation, etc. Even though, some of the previous types of sex cannot result in pregnancy, transmission of disease is still possible.

In life, we make thousands of decisions. The result of each decision turns into a positive or negative consequence. The game of sex is risky and can turn deadly. I understand the promotion of abstinence-only programs. Abstinence is the only 100% effective method to prevent unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted disease. However, REALITY must play a strong role in how sex education is delivered to young adults. When the facts are presented, it is extremely hard to deny the truth.

Abstinence-only programs have their supporters including George W. Bush and many in our Congress. Studies have shown that teens who abstain from sex in high school are twice as likely to go to college. In one particular study among teens age 15 to 19, increased abstinence led to a 67% drop in the pregnancy rate and a 51% drop in babies born to single teens in that age range. Others support safe sex and contraception programs for youth. There are facts and figures that support both sides.

Most studies show that abstinence-only programs are not sufficient to stop the spread of disease and unwanted pregnancy among adolescents. According to the Alan Guttmacher Institute, every day 8,000 teenagers in the United States become infected with a sexually transmitted disease. This year, 3 million teens will become infected. Sexually active teens are more likely to become depressed than peers who are not sexually active. A review of programs in eleven states indicated that teens were less likely to use contraception and only one program delayed the initiation of sex. Virginity pledges are included in many abstinence programs. According to the Journal of Adolescent Health, 88% of those who took the pledge still had sex before marriage and the rate of STDs were the same as nonpledgers. A recent Congressional report found that eighty percent of abstinence-only curricula contained false, misleading, or distorted information about reproductive health.

The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention believe the most effective programs are comprehensive which include a focus on delaying sexual behavior and provide information on how sexually active young people can protect themselves.

You have a choice. Abstinence is 100% effective in safeguarding against sexually transmitted diseases and unplanned pregnancy. Make the educated decision and stay safe!

Posted at 06:00 AM by Shantrie in the Abstinence category/ies.