The notion of virginity is a socially constructed idea, similar to gendered color associations, with no biological or scientific grounding. It has historically been used to control and exploit women and does not reflect a universal human experience.
Traditional views on virginity endorse a gendered double standard, often valuing chastity more in women than men, and lead to unequal power dynamics in relationships. Virginity defined by penile-vaginal sex excludes queer experiences and ignores sexual diversity, simplifying the rich array of intimate activities people may engage in.
The idealization of virginity in women can result in discrimination, self-worth issues, and harmful practices like virginity checks or genital cutting. It can also lead to women engaging in alternative sexual behaviors to maintain their perceived purity.
Instead of focusing on virginity, we can adopt the concept of a 'sexual debut.' This approach allows for a personal definition of one's first significant sexual experience, promoting a sense of safety and validation without the constraints of traditional virginity definitions.