Sexual Health

Sex for the first time

Sometimes it can seem as if everyone's having sex except you. Only you can decide whether you are ready for sex - don't let anyone pressurise you. Just because your friends say they are "doing it" doesn't mean that they are. If your boyfriend or girlfriend threatens to finish with you if you don't have sex with them, do you really want to go out with someone who is putting you under such pressure?

Sexuality

Some people are attracted to members of the opposite sex, some to members of their own sex and some to both. Discovering your sexuality can be confusing. See the sexuality section for more info.

Safer sex

If you and your partner decide you are ready for a sexual relationship, then there is a lot to think about, such as pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STI's). Discuss what protection you are going to use before the passion takes over.

Condoms

Condoms are the only contraception that provide protection against both pregnancy and STIs. Be prepared. If you are likely to be in a situation where you may have sex, make sure you have condoms with you. You can get condoms from lots of places (listed in the sexual health contacts page).

Contraception

As well as condoms there are many other types of contraception, which protect against pregnancy. This includes the combined pill, injectable contraception and the UIS. These can be used with condoms to protect against STIs. The clinics listed further on in this section will help you choose the kind of contraception that is best for you and your partner.

Emergency Contraception

If you have sex without using contraception (or if a condom splits), there are two types of emergency contraception that you can use to prevent pregnancy. Emergency pills must be taken within 3 days (72 hours), but the sooner you take them, the more effective they are. An IUD (intrauterine device) can be fitted up to five days after sex. You can get emergency contraception free of charge from your own GP or from the clinics listed further on in this section.

Pregnancy

Signs of pregnancy can include missed periods, tender breasts and feeling or being sick. If you think you may be pregnant it is important to have a pregnancy test as soon as possible (see where you can get free tests from the sexual health contacts page).

If you are pregnant, it is your choice whether to keep the baby, have the baby adopted or have an abortion. This can be a difficult decision to make. Help and support are available (see sexual health contacts).

Abortion

An abortion (or termination) can be done up to the 24th week of pregnancy. Most usually take place earlier, within 8 weeks of missing a period. Abortions are done by removing the fertilised egg (or embryo) from the womb either by taking pills or by surgery. If you need an abortion, this can be arranged by your GP or by services listed on the sexual health contacts page.

Confidentiality

All the services listed in this section are confidential. This means no one else will be told about your visit (including your parents or your own GP) without your permission. This is the case even if you are under 16. If someone you speak to thinks that you are in danger or being abused, then that information will need to be passed on to someone to help you - but you would be told about that first.

People to Talk to If you Need Help

School Nurse / School Health Adviser

Can provide confidential help and advice on all health matters, including sexual health.

Connexions Personal Advisers (PAs)

If you are not sure where to go for help and advice, your Personal Adviser will help. Some PAs actually specialise in teenage pregnancy issues but all PAs will be able to help.

Your Doctor

If you feel comfortable talking to your doctor, they will be able to help you.