1. Abstinence, Sexual decision making and Contraception Abstinence by definition is not doing something. Examples include: Abstaining from sweets, cell phone use, drugs. In Health Education and society in general, Abstinence usually specifically refers to not having sex. In recent years…Abstinence has grown increasingly more popular but has also been picked apart and changed.

2. In recent years, a term known as Relative Abstinence has come out = No Sexual Intercourse (no act of reproduction, still a “virgin”) But, still willing to participate in sexual activity including: Partner masturbation and oral sex This most likely will not get someone pregnant but can lead to Sexually transmitted diseases This really isn’t what the definition of Abstinence is

3. Abstinence No Sexual Activity Meaning, No Sexual Intercourse, No Partner masturbation and No oral sex Basically, your partner never touches your Private or genital areas This is the only 100% effective way to ensure the prevention of Sexually Transmitted Diseases and un-wanted Pregnancy

4. A few Benefits of Abstinence…. Never have to worry about unplanned pregnancy. Will not be faced with difficult decisions that are associated with unplanned pregnancy, such as teen marriage, adoption, or abortion. Are free to enjoy being young. Do not have to worry about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) Are making choices that is always legal. It is illegal for unmarried minors to engage in sexual activity.*

5. A few Benefits of Abstinence…. Do not have to deal with the emotional consequences or reputations Can establish nonsexual closeness with members of the opposite gender Can develop genuine feelings of love and trust. Can focus on setting and achieving their life goals and dreams.

6. Why are teens choosing to have sex that are? Generally speaking, according to recent surveys and ranked GIRLS BOYS Forced or taken advantage (most often while under influence of drugs or alcohol) Peer Pressure Thought the person Loved them /looking for someone to love Want to Fit in with friends Thought that’s what couples do if they stay together Curious to see what it’s like Thought they were “ready” Wanting to fit in with friendsThought “that’s just what couples do”

7. Sexual Decision Making Regardless if you are going to choose Abstinence or not, sexual decision making will occur throughout your teen years. Decisions include but are certainly not limited to: Having sex or “messing around” without a serious commitment Going into a “private” room What you will allow someone you just met to do You need to keep yourself out of potentially dangerous situations

8. Sexual Limitations Sexual Limitations are the limits you set for yourself on how far you are willing to go. Usually, they are set during long term relationships but should also be set for one’s personal decision making at all times. Once you set your sexual limitations, you need to make sure you stick to them by showing self control and positive refusal skills (ex. Going into a room alone at a party with someone you just met, not allowing your partner to do a “little too far”)

9. Abstinence vs other contraception If you are going to sex or participate in sexual activity, you need to compare the different choices out there. 2 main types: barrier and hormonal/chemical

10. Comparison of Contraception methods and their effectiveness in preventing Pregnancy

11. MORE DETAILS about birth control

12. How about a condom??? Male Condoms, the most used form of contraception for teens when used correctly, can be between 80-90% effective. They come in different styles including different colors, textures and flavors. Latex condoms with spermicidal lubricants are most effective in preventing HIV and un-wanted pregnancy but not as effective against other STD’s However….condoms have expiration dates, can come with defects, can be put on wrong, can leak, and can break.

13. But..I’m on the pill? Aren’t I safe Birth control pills, when used correctly, can regulate the menstrual cycle and allow for less severe menstruation times. They are between 85-99% effective if used correctly. HOWEVER, they do NOT protect at all against Sexually Transmitted disease and if a girl has sex when taking the final week of her pills, there is a high probability she will get pregnant

14. The bottom line……. 1)Set yourself Sexual Limitations before you get into a situation. 2)Keep yourself away from risky situations 3)Remember that the ONLY 100% effective way to prevent un-wanted pregnancy and STD’s is ABSTINENCE 4)If you are going to “mess around”, use appropriate contraception and choose only 1 partner