For Girls: Deciding About Sex

Making the decision to have sex is a complex choice. You may be feeling pressure in school, around friends and from boys to have sex. But before you make a decision, make sure you think about what’s at risk.

Your health risks

Sex can be risky for your health. When you have sex with someone, you’re in contact with possible germs from their past sexual partners. This may include a sexually transmitted infection (STI), including HIV. In many cases, you can’t tell if someone has an STI unless they tell you. And they may not even know that they have one. Barrier devices like latex condoms and dental dams can only lower your risk of contracting an STI. Nothing is 100% effective.

Your pregnancy risk

If you get pregnant, some very serious decisions will need to be made. These decisions will affect the rest of your life.

No birth control gives 100% protection against pregnancy, even when used correctly. The only guaranteed way to protect yourself from an unwanted pregnancy is to abstain from sexual intercourse.

However, if you are sexually active, you should talk to your parent or a health care provider to learn about the best types of birth control for you.  You should use an effective method of birth control along with male condoms every single time you have sexual intercourse. In addition to helping prevent pregnancy, using condoms correctly with every sex act from start to finish will reduce your risk of HIV and other STIs.

Your emotional risk

Having sex with someone is a big step, and can make you feel closer to them. But it can also hurt more if you have problems or break up. Think about whether you’re ready to cope with all the emotions that come with sex. 

Did You Know

• Did you know a girl can get pregnant the first time she ever has sex?
• Did you know that birth control does not protect against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI’s)?
• Did you know most teens are NOT having sex?

 Talk it out

Before you make a decision, talk with a trusted adult or healthcare provider about your thoughts. He or she can help you figure out the best choice for you, and help you learn how to stay safe with condoms and other protection if you do have sex.