Choosing to have sex with someone for the first time is a big decision and you shouldn't take it lightly.
You need to make sure it's right for you. Don't ever feel you should have sex because it's what your friends are doing, or if your partner is putting pressure on you to have sex when you don't feel ready.
The best thing to do is talk to your partner about sex and be open about how you're feeling. If you're not happy about doing something, they should understand and support you - if they don't, you need to ask yourself if they're the right person for you.
You can legally consent to take part in sexual activity at the age of 16. It is illegal to have sex with anyone under the age of 16, even if they consent (agree).
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Once
you've decided you're ready, you need to think about having sex safely, which means using contraception.
This will protect you against sexually transmitted infections and will help avoid pregnancy.
It's really important that you understand how to use contraception and what method will suit you best. We've got plenty of information on our contraception page and it's also worth speaking to your GP or an expert at a sexual health clinic if you need any advice.
You might be ready to have sex, but always make sure the other person is as well. It's important that everyone involved consents, or in other words agrees to have sex and is happy and enthusiastic about it.
Talking to your partner about sex might help you both feel more relaxed about it.
Chat openly with them about what you would like to do - and anything you don't want to do - and plan what type of contraception you are going to use.
It might feel a bit embarrassing, but having these discussions before you do anything can really help - and it could help you decide if you're ready or not.
If there's an adult you can trust to talk about sex with, have a chat with them. They might be able to put your mind at rest about any worries you have, or give you some useful advice.
If there's an adult or friend you can trust, have a chat with them about your questions or worries. They might be able to put your mind at rest or give you some useful advice.
If you live in Norfolk:
If you're 11-19 you can text ChatHealth on 07480 635060 for anonymous and confidential advice from a health professional. ChatHealth is available Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm.
You can also contact the Norfolk Healthy Child Programme by calling Just One Number on 0300 300 0123. Our opening hours are 8am-6pm Monday-Friday (excluding bank holidays) and 9am-1pm on Saturdays.
If you live in Waveney:
You can call the Suffolk School Nursing service on 0345 607 8866 or email childrenshealth@suffolk.gov.uk.
The iCaSH (Integrated Contraception and Sexual Health) service provides help with all aspects of sexual health. It is a free, confidential service and you can refer yourself, so you don't need to have a letter from your GP. In Norfolk they have clinics in Norwich, Great Yarmouth and King's Lynn. To make an appointment call 0300 300 3030.
If you’re the victim of rape or sexual assault, the police and other organisations are here to help. Call 999 to report a rape or attempted sexual assault, as soon as possible after the crime.
Good sexual health is important. Find out about safer sex, sexually transmitted infections and how to manage risks.
