Let's Talk About Sex

Sex is one of those subjects that no one still wants to consider a taboo, but few people are brave enough to tackle head on and get out into the open. This leads to mixed messages that we are supposed to enjoy sex, but only very privately, when we're "older" and without any real guidance. That's just not good enough. To make important decisions about your sex life and sexual health you need to know the facts. So, let's talk about sex.

Everybody's Doing It. Aren't They?

It may seem like everyone you know is having sex, but aside from a few boasts in the locker room there's no real way to prove this. What we do know is the number of teens seeking medical care for sexually transmitted infections - and this number is skyrocketing. Over 40,000 British teens seek care for STIs each year, which means that significant numbers of teens are having sex, and unfortunately they are not practicing safer sex every time.

Safer Sex, Better Health

"Safer sex" is often considered a great idea, but hard to adhere to in the heat of the moment. Safer sex is the practice by which you reduce contact with your partners' bodily fluids during sexual activity, which will help reduce the risk of exchanging sexually transmitted infections. If you love yourself, and you are mature enough to have sex, then you must be sure to protect yourself and offer no alternative but to have safer sex.

Remember to:

• Openly discuss your sexual histories with potential partners.
• Make a date to be tested for STIs with your partner before having sex.
• Use a condom every time you consider sex of any type.
• Use a condom even if you or your girlfriend is using another means of contraception because the pill, patch and various other methods do not protect against STIs.
• Consider combining spermicide with a condom to further protect against unplanned pregnancies.
• Never have sex if you feel unprepared or uncomfortable.

Alternatives to Sex

Don't be fooled by schoolyard rumours, oral, vaginal and anal sex are all "real" sex. There are, however, many alternatives you can engage in if you feel unready or unwilling to "go all the way." Almost anyone can derive pleasure from:

• Kissing.
• Petting/stroking.
• Masturbation.
• Stimulating a partner with their hands.
• Simulating sex while fully clothed.

The First Time

Even when you know the facts and are prepared to protect yourself, the first time you decide to have sex can be a very emotional, confusing event. Losing your virginity is momentous, one that you will literally remember for the rest of your life. Don't waste this beautiful moment by just "getting it over with." Wait until you feel right and you trust your partner, that way your first time truly will be magical.

Teen sex is a subject that scares the daylights out of most people. Adults hyperventilate about STIs and unplanned pregnancies, and teens pick up on this tension. The government also legislates on the topic of teen sex, and it is technically illegal for a girl under the age of 16 to have sex. If you are obeying the law and feel ready to take this big step, then make sure you know the facts, you protect yourself and you feel right. Don't disrespect yourself, or your partner, by settling for anything less.