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Abstinence

By Cory Silverberg, About.com

Updated September 29, 2005

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition: Usually refers to not engaging in any form sexual behavior. Some people will try to practice abstinence until they are in a long term committed relationship or married. Others choose to be abstinent for a period of time in their lives. There is debate about whether or not abstinence includes refraining from solo sexual activity (e.g. masturbation).
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