Sex - Are you ready?
Sex - Are you ready?
Choosing to have sex with someone for the first time is a big decision and you shouldn't take it lightly.
You need to make sure it's right for you. Don't ever feel you should have sex because your partner is putting pressure on you to have sex when you don't feel ready.
The best thing to do is talk to your partner about sex and be open about how you're feeling. If you're not happy about doing something, they should understand and support you - if they don't, you need to ask yourself if they're the right person for you.
You can legally consent to take part in sexual activity at the age of 16. It is illegal to have sex with anyone under the age of 16, even if they consent (agree). Find out more about Consent and the law.
Once you've decided you're ready to have sex, you need to consider contraception and protection to avoid unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Learn more about contraceptive options
Learn more about sexually transmitted infections
You can also speak to your GP practice, a community pharmacy or ICaSH Norfolk if you need specific advice.
You might be ready to have sex, but always make sure the other person is as well. It's important that everyone involved consents, or in other words, agrees to have sex and is happy and enthusiastic about it.
Talking to your partner about sex might help you both feel more relaxed about it.
Chat openly with them about what you would like to do - and anything you don't want to do - and plan what type of contraception you are going to use.
It might feel a bit embarrassing, but having these discussions before you do anything can really help - and it could help you decide if you're ready or not.
