You never HAVE TO have sex. Just because your best bud is doing it doesn’t mean you need to do it, too. In fact, even if you feel like the whole world is having sex, you shouldn’t feel pressured. The decision to become sexually active is a personal one that should come from yourself, without pressures from anybody else. In fact, “giving up your virginity” is often considered one of the most important decisions you’ll make in your lifetime. It isn’t something that should be taken lightly, particularly because of the many health risks involved in sexual activity, including sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and pregnancy. Many sexually active girls worry about becoming pregnant. When it comes down to it, the most effective form of birth control (and prevention of many STDs) is abstinence.

Besides these physical consequences, there also are emotional consequences from becoming sexually active. You might become confused, feel guilty, or become extremely attached to your partner after you have sex. Although these feelings are okay, and to be expected, they can be very confusing and difficult to deal with for a teenager with 10,000 other pressures going on. Everybody’s emotions are different, and you know what is best for you. Your decision might be influenced by your family, religious beliefs, or your personal beliefs regarding sex. Although it might sound silly, you are going to need to balance all of these influences to find your own “inner voice.” Take plenty of time for yourself to make decisions about your sexuality. This is definitely a decision you don’t want to make on the spot, so relax and take as much time as YOU need to come to a decision that works for YOU.

Click below to read about related topics.

Introduction
Abstinence
Birth Control
Teen Parenting
STDs