Sexual Health
Am I ready for a sexual relationship?
Only you know the answer to this – make sure it is something you think about and measure carefully. It is truly a choice, perhaps the most important choice you’ve made in your life.
Think about your reasons:
Is this your idea?
Do you want to fit in with a certain group?
Is the use of alcohol or drugs clouding your judgement?
Are you doing this under pressure?
Are you trying to prove something?
Are you just trying to feel close or special?
Are you curious?
Are you in love? When was the last time you felt like this?
Are you in control?
Think about what this relationship means to you:
- Do you think sex will change the relationship? How?
- Are you expecting that sex means you’re committed to each other and either of you won’t have sex with others? Are you both clear on this?
- How well do you know this person?
- How well does this person know you?
- Does this person respect you?
- Do they treat you with kindness and caring?
- Are they more interested in sex or learning more about you?
- Are you ready to be a parent?
- Are you ready to protect yourself against STD or unplanned pregnancy?
- Are you emotionally able to handle the intensity of this relationship?
- Will you remember this as a positive, indifferent or negative experience?
- Are your actions in keeping with your personal, family or religious values – does that matter to you?
Deciding to have sex or not is probably one of the biggest decisions you will have to make. Make sure you’re ready, physically and emotionally.
