HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN TO START HAVING SEX?
The decision to have sex is an important one. Many people have regrets about their early sexual experiences so think about the following before deciding what you want to do: 
- Do you feel you could say no and that would be okay?
- Are you sure nobody is putting pressure on you?
- Have you checked that your boyfriend/girlfriend is ready too?
- Have you thought about condoms and contraception and got it sorted?
The pressure your mates put you under is worse than the pressure you pile on yourself. Most of us have to put up with it at some point, but friends bragging, and cussing you for being a virgin, is a nightmare.
Are you ready...or not quite yet Quiz
Remember - sex without consent is rape.
If you are worried then talk to someone. There are many services that can advise and support you. It doesn't matter whether you are gay, straight, or bisexual, these services are there for you.
Sex. Worth talking about - Information and advice about contraception, sex and relationships for young people. Also offers a free confidential helpline 7 a.m. to midnight 7 days a week on 0800 28 29 30. Calls are free from landlines and won't show on your phone bill.
Alcohol and sex
Don't forget that alcohol affects our ability to make decisions and can result in young people having sex when they're not ready. Check out the alcohol and sex pages for more information.
No Worries! is a South Gloucestershire scheme that makes it easier for young people to get relationships and sexual health advice and services. Even if you are under 16, all of the services listed in the leaflet are free and confidential (unless you are at risk of harm).
South Gloucestershire No Worries! services leaflet (PDF format) - an up-to-date list of free, confidential local sexual health services that young people can trust.
