Can a Relationship Survive Without Sex Until Marriage? (please share your thoughts)

Is it really possible for guys to date without s** being involved?

Hi, NBSB (20s, F) here, raised in a conservative household.

Growing up, I always believed that s** should come after marriage. Part of it was because of my upbringing and how conservative the media was.

As I got older and met more people, my views became less rigid. During high school and college, I heard stories from friends about relationships, dating, and sexual experiences. It made me wonder: If I eventually had a boyfriend, would I be open to premarital s**? My answer became, "Maybe—if I genuinely wanted to, and if it was never out of pressure, manipulation, or obligation."

Fast forward: I finished high school and college without ever having a boyfriend or any romantic experience.

When I started working, I met someone. The closest label I can give it is a situationship.

Early on, I noticed several red flags, but because I was inexperienced and honestly a little lonely, I ignored them. Over time, our conversations became increasingly sexual. At first, I thought that was normal as we got closer, but eventually I realized that it felt like the only thing he was truly interested in talking about.

We eventually went on a date—my very first date ever.

Unfortunately, it didn't go well. He was hours late because of work. After the movie, since it was already late, he repeatedly invited me to his apartment. I declined several times, but he kept insisting. We ended up talking there for a while, and things started to escalate. He asked for consent, and I said no.

Nothing happened that night. We literally just slept.

But afterward, I noticed a change. His messages became less frequent, and he seemed less interested. That's when it hit me: maybe he was never genuinely interested in getting to know me in the first place.

I've had him blocked for almost a year now, but that experience left a lasting impression on me.

More than anything, I want to meet someone who dates intentionally—someone who wants me for who I am, not just for what I can offer physically.

So I wanted to ask the men here:

Is it genuinely possible for you to date or be in a committed relationship without s**? Have any of you done it successfully? What made it work—or not work?