Everyone has feelings about relationships, dating, intimacy and sex.  You may feel excited, nervous, aware or confused.  All of these feelings are normal.

Think about the sexual pressures you face every day.  These pressures seem to come from all directions.

• television and movies
• soap operas
• romance novels
• music and music videos
• magazines

But you don't have to let these pressures push you into anything when you're not ready. Only you can decide what is right for you, and that's sometimes a hard job.

How do you feel?  Understanding your feelings can help you deal with pressure. The Sex Check may help you choose what is best for you.

• Will I feel good about myself if I have sex now?
• Does my partner want to have sex now?
• Am I being pressured to make a decision?
• If the relationship breaks up will I be glad I had sex with this person?
• Should I be in love to have sex?
• Would I like to just make out but not go all the way and have sex?
• If we have sex, will I use effective birth control every time?
• Do I know how to protect myself against sexually transmitted diseases by using   condoms every time (even if we are using another method of birth control?
• Am I afraid of anything?
• Will I deceive my parents or someone important to me if I have sex?
• Will I feel guilty?
• If our birth control method fails, are we ready to deal with an unplanned pregnancy?
• Think about how far you want to go before you get there.  Set your own limits.

• flirting
• fantasies
• hugging and holding hands
• casual kissing
• French kissing
• caressing with clothes on
• caressing under clothes
• nude embrace
• mutual masterbation
• oral sex
• protected sexual intercourse

Talk things over with your partner to make sure your limits are clear.  If you're not sure of your partner's feelings, don't guess.  Find out for sure.

Avoid situations that may make it difficult for you to stick to your limits, such as being alone with your partner, or using alcohol and other drugs.

Ottawa Carleton Regional Government Healthy Sexuality Program
(613) 234-4641

Further sources of information.....