You’ll have to decide that for yourself, because there really isn’t one “right” way to define virginity. Virginity isn’t something physical that “grows back.” It’s a concept that teens define in all kinds of ways. And it’s one that they have to define for themselves.

If you regret a sexual experience—or it was forced on you—you can decide that you won’t have sex again until the circumstances are different, and you feel really ready and sure about having sex. And you can decide to call yourself anything you like.

What does count about your past sexual experience is that you could’ve been exposed to a sexually transmitted infection (STI) if your partner was infected and you didn’t use protection.

In the future—when you decide to have sex again—you’ll have to tell your partners about any past sexual risks. You also need to be tested for STIs, to make sure you’re STI-free. This is especially important because many STIs have no symptoms. So make sure you’re educated about sexual health risks and protect yourself and others.

Editors’ Note: To learn more about protection, check out these SEX, ETC. stories. For info on STIs, click here.