Relationships

Is it normal to feel like this?

I'm not sure I'm ready to have sex.

Don't rush into this decision. You will always remember the first time you had sex and you want this to be a positive experience.

Don't just agree to have sex because you're worried your partner will dump you if you don't or you think everyone else is doing it.

Ask yourself these questions:

• Do I trust my girlfriend / boyfriend?
• Does he/she make me feel happy?
• Do I feel ready?
• Have we discussed contraception?

Finally, don't forget that if you do decide to have sex, make sure you use a condom. Condoms will help protect you and your partner against some sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy if used correctly. Condoms are FREE to young people with a C Card.

I'm 15 and all my friends have had sex but I haven't.

• 3 out of 5 people under the age of 16 have not had sex
• Sex under the age of 16 is illegal. However, if you do decide to have sex under the age of 16, you can still access free and confidential advice and contraception
• You should have sex when you and your partner are both ready

Questioning your sexuality?
It can be difficult to know if you are attracted to someone of the same sex; it differs for everyone. It could take a while to know whether you are or are not attracted to people of the same sex, so there is no need to rush. Some gay, lesbian and bisexual people say they 'felt different' from time to time when they were young. They had crushes on friends, but it took a while for them to think of themselves as gay, lesbian or bisexual.

If you want more information about coming out or think you might be gay, lesbian, bisexual or just curious click here or here for more information.