15 Oct 2021

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Celibacy: Why many women are deciding to save sex for marriage

Shari Mementzik

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Woman are choosing celibacy for various reasons, ushering in the rise of the 'reborn virgins'. Illustration photo by Getty Images

Woman are choosing celibacy for various reasons, ushering in the rise of the 'reborn virgins'. Illustration photo by Getty Images

We're not talking about surgical reconstruction of the hymen, though.

"A 'born-again', or 'renewed', virgin is someone who's already engaged in sexual activity and has made a decision for moral, religious or any other practical reason to not be sexually active until a later time or after marriage," says sex therapist, Chantelle Otten.

READ MORE | Casual or committed: Not all sex is the same, psychologist explains

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Do you think it's important to get married in this day and age?

Yes, it's important in order to create a family unit and for companionship

Not at all. Being single is far more liberating

There is no general answer to this, it's each to their own

Yes, society still frowns on unmarried people, especially women

It depends on whether you are able to find a compatible partner

Results

Yes, it's important in order to create a family unit and for companionship

22% - 570 votes

Not at all. Being single is far more liberating

9% - 240 votes

There is no general answer to this, it's each to their own

49% - 1250 votes

Yes, society still frowns on unmarried people, especially women

1% - 37 votes

It depends on whether you are able to find a compatible partner

18% - 463 votes

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