Sex is overblown by both secular and religious camps. It and it doesn't matter. It's the act of procreation primarily.

Intimacy is a separate component all together.

I believe the answer to be education. Unbiased, straight forward and to the point. Idealism should be shared from all views and ultimately people need to make their own choices for themselves.

I'm sorry the author feels bad about who she is. I hope she comes around to see she is still precious and valuable and accepts who she is.