Sex and Relationships

Part of growing up is going out with people and then maybe, when the time is right, having sex for the first time. In the UK, the age of consent for sex is 16.

But only you know if you’re ready to have sex with someone. It’s vital to use contraception if you decide to have sex. A condom is best – it stops you getting pregnant and can also stop you catching an STI (sexually transmitted infection).

What to look out for:

¼ of nearly 1/3 of boys under 16 have had sex, but the average for both sexes is 16.
67% of young men and 84% of young women aged 13-14 regret having early sex.

What to do:

Go to your Doctor or a sexual health clinic to find out about different types of contraception.
If you’ve had sex without contraception or the condom has split or hasn't worked properly you need to take Emergency hormonal contraception within 72 hours. Seek advice from your Doctor or family planning clinic if you have had unprotected sex, even if it had been longer than 72 hours.
If you think you’re pregnant, talk to your parents/carers about what to do or visit your Doctor/family planning clinic.