Campus Health: Sexual Abstinence for First-Year Students
- Kimberley-Rose Madzima
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
By: Sylvia Hashondali
Starting university comes with freedom, excitement, and a lot of pressure, especially when it comes to relationships and sex. Let’s talk honestly, without judgment.
What Is Abstinence?
Abstinence simply means choosing not to have sex. It can be for now, for a season, or until you feel ready. And the truth is, it’s the only method that’s 100% effective in preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. If there’s no sex, there’s no pregnancy, obviously!
Some benefits of abstinence include:
• No risk of unplanned pregnancy
• Full protection from STDs
• Less emotional stress, heartbreak, or confusion
• No side effects, no regrets
• More time to focus on yourself, your studies, and your growth
How to Stay Abstinent (If That’s Your Choice)
• Join a sportcode, or find a hobby
• Surround yourself with friends who respect your boundaries
• Learn to say “no” without explaining yourself
• Remember your goals and why you came to university
Why Some Students Choose Abstinence?
Choosing abstinence isn’t about being scared or boring. It’s about protecting yourself, emotionally, mentally, and physically
First year in Uni is already a lot. You’re figuring out who you are while trying to fit in. There’s nothing wrong with taking sex off the table while you do that.
Why Students End Up Being Sexually Active:
• Fear of missing out (FOMO)
• Pressure from friends or partners
• Wanting to fit in
• Fear of being alone
• Not knowing how or when to say “no.”
What to do if you fail to abstain:
• Get informed about sexual health
• Use protection moving forward
• Seek campus health or counselling services if you feel overwhelmed
• Forgive yourself and keep going
Did you know?
Many STIs have no symptoms, so you might not know you’re infected without testing, making prevention and informed decisions important.
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