Choosing to HAVE Sex
Deciding to have sexual intercourse with another person is a very personal and private matter. You, and no one else, can make that decision. Just make sure that your decision is soundly based and that you have valid, good reasons for deciding so.
Bad Reason's:
1 It feels good.
2 It's "cool" to have sex.
3 I want to be accepted.
4 It's easier to have sex than to say no.
5 I feel pressurised by my partner to have sex.
6 I want to experiment.
Choosing NOT to Have Sex
Some youth don't have sex because their religion prohibits it or because they simply have a very strong belief system of their own. Other youth realise that they aren't emotionally ready for a sexual relationship and they want to wait until they're absolutely sure they can handle it.
When it comes to sex, there are two very important things to remember:
* You are ultimately the person in charge of your own happiness and your own body.
* There is no rush to have sex. Being a virgin certainly proves that you are in charge of your life!
Unplanned pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases and HIV/Aids are other very important reasons why youth are choosing to abstain.
There are millions of non-sexual ways to show someone you love them:
You can show a person you care for them by spending time with them.
Go to the movies.
Just hang out and talk. If you are with someone you really like, then anything can be fun.
There are other ways to feel physically close without having sex. These ways include everything from kissing and hugging to touching and petting each other. Just remember that if you're not careful these activities can lead to sex. Plan beforehand just how far you want to go, and stick to your limits. It can be difficult to say NO and mean it when things get a bit too heated.
Meet with friends and hang out together.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to have sex is up to you. But by waiting until you are ready, both emotionally and physically, you respect yourself. Well done for having the courage to do so!
