Relationships

People have mixed feelings about having sex for the first time. This can be a mixture of excitement, fear, curiosity and many other thoughts. These are all normal. Having sex for the first time can be quite disappointing if you are not 100% sure, so don’t do it until you feel completely ready. Don’t get stressed by feeling everyone is having sex but you.

Most people don’t have sex until they’re over 16. Before you have sex, why not try this checklist to see how you really feel and if you are 100% ready:

• It feels like the right thing to do. I know I’m ready.
• I’m 100% sure my partner cares about me as much as I do about them.
• I’ve discussed using contraception and condoms with my partner, and know how to use them.
• No-one pressurising or forcing me to have sex, I want to do it.
• I’m sure I won’t regret it the next day.
• I don’t want to do it to be cool or popular.
• I’m not scared that my boyfriend/girlfriend will leave me if I don’t.

• I’m not doing it just to please my partner. I want to have sex.
• I know I can say “NO” at any point, and my partner will be OK with that.

If you agree with most of these you may be ready. If not, you should wait until you are absolutely sure.

For free confidential advice on sex, relationships and contraception, you can ring SEXWISE on
T: 0800 28 29 30

You may have lots of questions about relationships and sex. There are a number of people in your life that you may choose to talk to in confidence such as parents, carers, brother, sisters or friends.

In addition, you may want to talk to:

• School nurses, Teachers or Youth Workers.
• Trained workers at the services listed for condoms and pregnancy tests. Click here for details
• Connexions Personal Advisers.
         - T: 0116 262 7254
• Choices. T: 0116 289 8969
         – 24 hr confidential answerphone