Sex Before Marriage

Purity seems archaic; abstinence impossible. Why wait when everyone else is getting the goods now? It €™s just sex the subject of nearly every movie and primetime show, even magazine ads. What €™s so special about it? In a sex-saturated culture, waiting till marriage seems outdated and prudish. Pleasure is the name of the game. But that €™s not the whole story. In addition to the risk of contracting STDs and AIDS or getting pregnant, premarital sex leads to emotional distress, distrust, regret and emptiness. That €™s because sex connects two people in body and spirit; it €™s impossible to separate the two. If you €™re planning to give away your virginity, or are hurting from past sexual experiences, read on for a different view of sex.

Background Information

Risk Factors for Premarital Sex
Concerned your teen is having sex? These indicators may help you decide to confront your teen.

The New Virgins
Saving sex for marriage isn't just a passing fad.

Let's Talk About Sex
How do you make the right decision about when and with whom you should have sex?

Questions and Answers

Is it okay to have sex before marriage if we plan on marrying in the future?
Answer

My boyfriend and I have been together for three years. We have recently started having sex. How do I tell him I want to stop?
Answer

Stories

How My Sexual Encounter Changed Everything
Never did I imagine that a few hours of pleasure would produce years of pain €“ and a beautiful baby girl.

If you've been through an experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.
Share Your Story

Other Things to Consider

The Screwtape E-mails
Someone is out to get you but his identity may surprise you.

What is Sex Worth?
Sex before marriage cost more than I dreamed.

Never Surrender
A committed marriage can weather the storms of life.

Abuse & AddictionPornography and Cybersex, Sexual Abuse

Parenting ChildrenTalking About Sex

Parenting TeensSexual Activity, Crisis Pregnancy, Homosexuality

TransitionsGetting Married, Adoption, Having a Baby