teenage sex

Take our "ready for sex" test below

Sexuality is a natural and normal part of life. And so is sex. Having sex play - from masturbation to flirting, from kissing to petting, from oral sex to intercourse - is a big decision. It involves many feelings and responsibilities.

Choosing to be in an ongoing sexual relationship is another big decision. There is a lot to consider.

Figuring out when you're ready for sex continues through life. People need to make decisions about sex in their teens, 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond - every time a sexual situation develops.

Personal Values and Goals

Sexy images are everywhere. We see sex on television, the Internet, and in books, magazines, and movies. We hear about it in songs. Sex is used in ads to sell products. The messages we get can be confusing and hard to sort out.

Think about your values by answering these questions:

• What messages have you gotten from your family about sex?
• What are your religious, spiritual, or moral views about sex?
• Do you want a committed relationship before you have sex?
• Will having sex now affect your plans for the future?

If having sex supports your personal values and goals, rather than conflicts with them - you may be ready.

Emotional Risks of Sex

Having sex can be wonderful - whether or not it includes intercourse. But it can make people feel very vulnerable, and they can get hurt.

Think about how it may make you feel:

• Will having sex make you feel differently about yourself? If so, how?
• How might your feelings about your partner change?
• Will you expect more commitment from your partner? What if you don't get it?
• What if having sex turns out to be different than you expect?
• What if having sex ends your relationship?
• What if having sex changes your relationship to your family and friends?

If you understand and can accept the emotional risks of having sex, you may be ready.

Physical Risks of Sex

Having sex with a partner can be a meaningful way to express yourself. But there are two important physical risks - sexually transmitted infection and unintended pregnancy.

Do you know how to reduce the risks?

• I know how to reduce the risk of infection with safer sex.
  [ ] Yes - [ ] No
• I have condoms - and know how to use them.
  [ ] Yes - [ ] No
• I know how to prevent pregnancy.
  [ ] Yes - [ ] No
• I have reliable birth control and know how to use it.
  [ ] Yes - [ ] No
• I know how I would handle an infection or unintended pregnancy.
  [ ] Yes - [ ] No
• I know how my partner would feel about an unintended pregnancy.
  [ ] Yes - [ ] No
• I will go for check-ups for sexually transmitted infections when I take risks.
  [ ] Yes - [ ] No
• I have discussed these issues with my partner.
  [ ] Yes - [ ] No

If you are ready to protect yourself and your partner from physical risks, you may be ready.