Dos and Don’ts: What to Know About Having Sex for the First Time

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How to prepare for having sex the first time.

Having sex with someone for the first time is an exciting and meaningful step to take in your life! If you’re ready to have sex for the first time, there are a few things you should do and consider beforehand. Check them out below!

Get and Give Consent

Sexual consent is when two partners agree to no pressure or manipulation as they join in sexual activity. It’s important to talk about what you do and don’t want to do with your partner and respect each other’s boundaries at all times.

Remember that consent can change at any time, even during sex. If you or your partner decide during sex that you no longer want to be having sex, it needs to stop right away.

Be Honest

Honesty is crucial in any relationship, but it’s especially important in a sexual relationship. If you like or want something, be honest about it! The same goes for if you don’t want something – speak up and don’t rely on your partner taking hints from your body language.

This means asking partner if they want to do what you want to do, and telling your partner “yes” or “no” to what they say they want to do. Both of you can say “stop” or “no” in any situation, at any time.

Get Tested for STIs

If you’re planning to have oral, vaginal or anal sex, for the first time, getting tested afterward can help prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections.

Use protection

If you’re having oral, vaginal or anal sex, using birth control and condoms to protect against pregnancy and STIs is key. Condoms are simple to use, quick to put on and can even help make sex last longer.

If you’re a teenager in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, you can access family planning services without your parents’ signing off on it. Family Planning services include STI testing, birth control, GYN visits and more.

If you feel comfortable talking with a trusted adult, you can find ways to get that conversation started here.

Communicate

Sex can lead to the possibility of unplanned pregnancy or STIs. Talk about how you would handle an unplanned pregnancy or an STI before you have sex, not only with your partner but your parents or trusted guardian as well.

Ready to take control of your sexual health and plan your future? Visit KeepRelationshipsReal.com.