The Problem With Virginity Pledges

By Elizabeth Boskey, Ph.D., About.com Guide

Virginity. It seems like such a straightforward concept, but ask any ten people what it means and you'll get ten different answers. Despite this, the importance of virginity is stressed by many groups, and by abstinence only sex education programs. These programs frequently encourage teenagers to maintain their virginity rather than giving them comprehensive information about safer sex.

Can I get an STD from having sex with a virgin?

By Elizabeth Boskey, Ph.D., About.com Guide

Question: Can I get an STD from having sex with a virgin?

Answer: Yes, you can get an STD from having sex with a virgin. Even if it is a virgin's first time having vaginal intercourse, it doesn't mean that they have never been exposed to an STD. Many individuals consider themselves to be virgins even if they've had oral sex and anal sex — both of which are risk factors for acquiring an STD. This is, in fact, one of the main problems with virginity pledges, and it's why they are not a particularly useful tool in a sex educator's arsenal.