Sexual Health - Sexual Health information for Teenagers and Young Adults

How do I know if I am ready for sex?

Here are some questions to help you decide if you are ready to have sex.

Yes

1. Am I feeing pressured to have sex by my partner, my friends or television and movies?

2. Will having sex fit with my religious or moral beliefs?

3. Will I feel guilty if I have sex?

4. Do I want to have sex to get love, affection or attention?

5. Do I want to have sex to prove that I am sexually attractive?

6. Am I afraid that my reputation will be hurt if I have sex?

7. Do I think sex will bring my partner and me closer together, both emotionally as well as physically?

8. Do my partner and I both want the same things from sex?

9. Can I talk to my partner about birth control and can we share the responsibility for birth control?

10. Can I talk to my partner about sexually transmitted diseases and how we can protect ourselves?

11. If birth control fails, are we ready to deal with an unplanned pregnancy?

If you answer yes to: 1,3,4,5,6, or 7 or answer no to questions: 2,8,9,10 or 11, then you may want to think more about whether you are really ready to have sex.

Sometimes, it is also helpful to talk to a trusted adult, (such as parents or a school counsellor) about your decision.

If you want more information, visit your doctor or the Sexual Health Clinic.

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