Abstinence means not having any kind of sex—anal, vaginal or oral. When abstinence is used continuously, it is 100% effective in preventing infection with HIV and other STDs. Sexual relationships have the potential to enhance our lives, but they can also present risks. Abstinence is one way to avoid the risks and can be practiced by adolescents and young adults as well as older adults. Abstinence may be the right choice for young people who are still in a critical period of development as well as older adults who are not in a marriage or committed relationship with someone they know does not have HIV.

Tips for remaining abstinent

• Remind yourself of the reasons you chose to be abstinent.
• Think about the consequences if you were to choose to become sexually active.
• Remember that alcohol and other drugs may affect your judgment and sexual decision-making ability, so try not to reevaluate your decision to stay abstinent if you've been using drugs or alcohol or during sexually charged situations—stick with your decision until you can think about it clearly.
• Speak with others who can help support your decision to be abstinent.

A decision to practice abstinence does not mean that you should not know about condoms and safer sex practices. Most people stop being abstinent at some point in their lives. Learning how to protect yourself from HIV allows you to be prepared in case you decide to have sex.