The Third Date "Rule"

In tonight's post (Or today's post. I know when I'm scheduling it to post, but how do I know when you'll be reading this?!?) I'll be discussing the so-called "Third Date Rule." (I also should mention that some sources refer to a Fifth Date Rule, claiming that the latter has superseded the former sometime during the last three years or so.)

Anyway, if you're unfamiliar with this rather odd concept, it says that the third date is the one on which a new couple is expected to sleep together for the first time. Well, that's all well and good, I suppose, but there are so many variables in a relationship, I think the whole idea of a "rule" for the first sexual encounter between two people is rather preposterous.

So here's a couple of questions for my readers:

Do you have a third (or fifth) date rule?

If so, let's say you're dating someone whom you like enough to continue dating, but as of the second date, you don't feel comfortable enough with him (or her*) to sleep with him. So what do you do on the third date? Sleep with him anyway, because you've already committed yourself to this nonsensical rule? Or refuse to date this person a third time, to avoid being forced (by your own stupid rule) to have sex? And if you say you'll make an exception to your rule... well, it's not really a rule, then, is it?

*I don't know if "her" applies, since I don't know if any guys have a third date rule. Most guys would jump into bed at the first opportunity. And I'm a guy, so I can't justifiably be called sexist for saying that. Or can I?

Just curious. I've never dated anyone who had such a rule.

(And by the way, the above illustration is placed there in reference to "getting over the hump," so to speak, and not in reference to "getting humped!" This is a classy blog, don'tcha know!)

Thanks for your time.