Meet the "Sworn Virgins"
These Albanian "sworn virgins" lived like men—but with their hymens intact.
Not the most progressive culture, is it? But there are so few of these "sworn virgins" around, hopefully the practice will die out. For the sake of Albanian women who have suffered under this "sworn virginity," I hope their culture will progress forward in a way that's more accepting of untraditional gender roles.
Qamile does admit to one plus-side to being a lifelong virgin: no bratty kids. She says,
"I think it's better to be barren like me, than to have children that bring grief to you."
And that benefit, even I can agree with.
Discussion
i commend these women! Sex complicates things and creates problems. Look at all the problems we have, teenage pregnancys, std's in youth, one of the biggest aids academics worldwide we have ever seen. I mean, when you think about it these women are not really sacrificing anything. they have no worries. they have taken this vow and they are able to live productive lives. I think it's great.
It's easy to criticize when we're not living within that culture. Do you really think they're missing out on that much? For what they get in return? Sounds like respect is more important to these women, so they made a decision. I don't think it's so bad.
lookee here, i'm a sworn virgin without even knowing they exist! ok, so my hymen isn't intact anymore, but it might as well be--can you grow back your hymen if you haven't had sex in two years? but to get back on topic, kids are a pain in the ass! i'd rather be a kooky aunt than have to wipe up snot all the time. but i'd also rather have sex, so shows how much agency i have...
