Every person is different when it comes to knowing when they are ready to have sex (oral, anal, vaginal or hand sex). Some people have sex, others don’t. Both can be normal. Personal values help tell a person when they’re ready for sex. When thinking about when they will be ready for sex, people consider the legal age of consent and personal, family, faith and cultural values. Signs of sexual readiness include:
- Be well into puberty or older
- Feel great about themselves, their bodies and sex
- Set, communicate and respect sexual boundaries
- Talk to partners about condom use, STI, birth control, sexual wants, dislikes & goals
- Talk to health care providers about sex, protection, STI and any special health needs
- Get and use condoms and, if applicable, birth control
- Think about how you might respond to an unplanned pregnancy and/or STI
- Have a mutually respectful, trusting, safe, caring relationship
It can be helpful to talk to someone you trust, like a parent, health care provider or friend.