Virginity pledge

A virginity pledge is a commitment, usually made in a group, to practice abstinence until marriage. These pledges are usually symbolized by purity rings, or covenant cards.

According to the Heritage Foundation, teens who make virginity pledges enjoy the following life outcomes :

• Are less likely to experience teen pregnancy;
• Are less likely to be sexually active while in high school and as young adults;
• Are less likely to give birth as teens or young adults;
• Are less likely to give birth out of wedlock;
• Are less likely to engage in risky unpro­tected sex; and
• Will have fewer sexual partners.