|
Am I ready for sex?
Having sex for the first time, or the first time with a new partner, can be a wonderful experience, but only when you are ready.
It is important to know your own mind and have the necessary information to be able to make an informed decision. Answer the following questions openly and honestly and they may help you to work out your current level of knowledge on sexual matters:
- What do you know about sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?
- What do you know about pregnancy?
- Do you know how to lower the chance of pregnancy and STIs?
- Can you and your partner talk openly about sex, contraception, and STIs?
- How does having sex fit in with your personal values?
- How does sex fit in with the values of your culture, family and religion?
- Do you trust and respect your partner?
- Does your partner trust and respect you?
- Do you or your partner feel pressurized to have sex? If so, why?
- What will you and your partner do if sex results in pregnancy and/or infection?
- How well do you know how your partner likes to be touched and what your partner likes and dislikes and expects from sex?
- How well does your partner know how you like to be touched and what you like and dislike and expect from sex?
If you don't know much about pregnancy and STIs, and don't know how to prevent them, then you’re not ready.
If you can't talk with your partner about pregnancy, contraception, or STIs, then you’re not probably ready.
If you or your partner feel unsure, you are not probably ready.
If you and your partner do not trust and respect each other, then you’re not probably ready
Choosing to wait until you feel ready to be in a sexual relationship is absolutely fine. It is your right to decide when the time is right for you, and there is no need to feel guilty about your decision. It may be that you are not ready emotionally, or perhaps it does not fit with your religious or cultural beliefs. You may need to speak with your partner, or need to find out more about pregnancy, STIs and contraception. Whatever you are unsure about, it is best to address this before making any decisions.
Further information.
http://www.advocatesforyouth.org »
|
|
|
|
|
|
