Relationships

Teen boy and girl

Sex and Relationships

Sex is a big thing. There seems to be a lot of pressure on young people to have sex. The pressure can come from friends, family, girl/boy friends and the media (newspapers, magazines, television, etc).

However, the truth is, only you can decide when it is the right time to start a sexual relationship.

Having sex for the first time is a big decision, it can also be quite disappointing if you are not 100% sure that it is what you want to do. If you don’t feel completely ready, you may feel hurt or regret having sex later on.

There is no perfect age to start having sex and there are no rules that say how long you have to have been going out with someone. That is because it is different for everyone. Only you will know when you are ready, you should never have sex to please someone else. If you do have sex under pressure you won’t enjoy it and it will be a bad memory that will stay with you for life.

If you are being told “if you loved me… ” then it’s time to think long and hard about your relationship. Like it or not, those ‘if you loved me’ lines can be emotional bullying. If you really loved each other you would be able to talk about what you both want and have respect for each other’s’ feeling and wishes. Never have sex if you feel pressured in any way.

Sometimes what starts out as enjoyable and exciting can end up as upsetting and frightening. Sexual abuse can take many forms. From inappropriate touching to being made to watch something you don’t want to. If it’s happening to you, remember it is not your fault. Report it!

Sex and the Law

The law says it is legal for you to have sex from the age of 16, whether you are gay, straight or bisexual.

The aim of the law is to protect the safety and rights of young people and make it easier to prosecute people who pressure or force others into having sex when they don’t want to. Forcing some one into having sex is a crime.

Remember, no matter what your age, you shouldn’t have sex until you are ready.

Advice and Support

You can always talk to a Youth Support Worker.

Call: 01709 334905

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