Talking about sex can be awkward and uncomfortable, no matter what age you are. If you have any questions or concerns about sex or growing up, it is important to talk about it with someone you can trust. If you feel too uncomfortable to talk about it, try to remember that sex is a natural thing and that talking about it is important for your sexual health.
It is also important to know that there is no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ way to have sex, as long as everyone is consenting and comfortable. There are many ‘types’ of sex and sexual acts that some people may like and others may not. In a nutshell, the word ‘sex’ may be used to describe any way in which people pleasure each other (or themselves!) sexually, and this varies greatly between everyone regardless of what body parts they have, their gender and their sexual orientation. Exploring our sexuality is a unique, life-long, ever-changing process and so it makes sense that we think carefully about it, and talk about it!
If you are having sex or are sexually active, it is essential that you can talk openly with your partner about what you want and don’t want. Sex should be positive and enjoyable. Talking about what you like and don’t like is part of having a healthy sexual relationship. It is important to discuss any concerns you may have with your partner (like concerns about pregnancy, contraception or sexually transmitted infections), to make sure that you are making the right decisions for you! A part of any healthy relationship is open and honest communication.
These tests are free and confidential. That means that the doctor who is doing the test cannot share your confidential information. The only exception to that is if you are under the age of consent (17 years), and the doctor thinks that you might be in a vulnerable position, for example, if someone had sex with you without your consent. STI tests involve getting a swab of the vagina/penis, giving a blood sample, and giving a urine sample in some cases. The test only takes about 10 minutes. It is also important to remember that if you have an STI you have a responsibility to tell your current and past partners, as they could have passed it on to you, or you to them. Once they are in the know, they can get tested and get treatment if necessary. If you think you may have an STI, you should see your doctor, or you can attend an STI clinic and get tested.
How do I know if I’m ready? This can be really tricky to decide, especially if you REALLY like someone. It is important that when it comes to doing anything sexually for the first time, that you have a good think about what you want and what will make you feel happy and safe. A lot of your friends might be talking about kissing, hand jobs, oral sex and sex, but that does not mean that everyone is doing it. You need to think about what you feel ready for. Here are some questions to ask yourself before you decide…
