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Sexual health and contraception
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Sex – yes or no?
It can be difficult to decide whether you're ready to start having sex or not. It’s a decision only you can make. It's important that you make that choice and don't feel pressured into making a choice your not happy with. Having sex before you’re ready could leave you feeling hurt and confused. It will help if you are clear about what you do and don't want to do and are able to communicate this to your partner.
You may get the impression that everyone of your age is having sex. They're not! Many of them may be having the same doubts that you are. Different people make different decisions about when is the right time to start having sex based on their beliefs, their religion or their culture. Some young people decide to go along with the beliefs they have grown up with, others decide that they wish to make a different decision based on their own views.
It can be difficult to decide whether you're ready to start having sex or not. It’s a decision only you can make. It's important that you make that choice and don't feel pressured into making a choice your not happy with. Having sex before you’re ready could leave you feeling hurt and confused. It will help if you are clear about what you do and don't want to do and are able to communicate this to your partner.
You may get the impression that everyone of your age is having sex. They're not! Many of them may be having the same doubts that you are. Different people make different decisions about when is the right time to start having sex based on their beliefs, their religion or their culture. Some young people decide to go along with the beliefs they have grown up with, others decide that they wish to make a different decision based on their own views.
Chris, 18, has taken the decision not to have sex before marriage - visit this BBC webpage for more.
More on relationships
More on sexual health
- Find out more about getting free condoms in your local area by registering for the C-Card Scheme
- Find out more about Chlamydia and Chlamydia testing
Useful links:
Links to useful sexual health websites
Sexual health advice and support
Useful Downloads
Sexual Health Clinics For Young People in Notts (149 KB)
Useful numbers and contacts for support and advice (34.5 KB)
