Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month

How do you know when you're ready for sex?

Is this something I really want to do, or am I feeling pressured?

• I’m the only virgin I know.
• Sex will make me more popular.
• My boyfriend/girlfriend will break up with me if I don’t have sex.

Will having sex affect my future goals?

Ask yourself how you would handle STD or pregnancy and how they might get in the way of school and other things in your life.

Do I want to have sex with this person?

Make sure you respect, trust, and care about each other. Neither of you should pressure the other to have sex. 

Can I be honest and clear about what I do and don't want to do?

If you’re not ready to talk openly with each other about sex, you’re not ready to have sex. 
 

Do I have protection to help avoid pregnancy and STDs?

Talk with a doctor or nurse about getting on birth control before you have sex. Planned Parenthood has doctors and nurses that can work with you to figure out the best method for you and has low-cost or free services for teens. Make sure you have condoms handy whenever you might have sex. Use birth control and condoms together to make sure you’re doubly protected.

Do I have support?

Talk it out with someone you trust — a parent, an aunt or uncle, a health care provider, or someone else who cares about you. They can help you figure out if it’s the best decision for you.

REMEMBER: It’s always okay to wait to have sex. When you decide you’re ready, Planned Parenthood can help with birth control and condoms.