Starting a sexual relationship
Having a sexual relationship can be very enjoyable – it’s generally recognised as the most fun two naked people can have.
Talk first
Before a couple start having sex it’s worth having a frank discussion about their expectations and any worries they might have. It’s better to talk about your views on contraception and safer sex before, rather than after, you sleep together. To have a good sexual relationship both partners need to feel happy with the decision to start having sex. No one has the right to force someone else to have sexual contact with them.
When's the right age?
There is no ‘right’ age to start having sex. (Although it’s illegal for both straight and gay people under 16 to have sex). If we believed everything we saw on TV – especially those late night erotic dramas on Channel 5 – we’d think that everybody was shagging everybody else. Of course this doesn’t reflect what’s going on in the real world where the average age for first sex for men and women in the UK is 17. This is just the average and many people wait until they’re older. If there’s any doubt, it’s always best to wait until you feel ready.
Before starting
The only person who knows when you are ready to have sex is yourself. Don't let anyone pressure you into doing it before you are ready.
- When someone says they aren't ready to have sex they mean it.
- Treat your partner with respect and don't brag about what you did last night.
- Buying a meal or a present for your partner doesn't mean you have a right to have sex with them.
- It is best to use a condom, otherwise you risk getting a sexually transmitted infection or becoming a father
- Contraception isn't just a woman's responsibility.
- If you're going to break it off with a partner, tell them first, not your mates.
- Everyone gets dumped at some point – it’s depressing but not the end of the world.
