The skin covering the tip of the circumcised penis (prepüsyum) surgical operation is to remove. Today in children is one of the most frequently performed surgical procedures. BC's first circumcision In the year 4000 in Egypt has been made, evidence is available. A religious obligation for Muslim and Jewish communities, African and Australian aborijinlerinde are due to more traditional beliefs. So no matter what was done approximately every six men in one of the world is circumcised.
CIRCUMCISION medically needed? Are the Benefits of circumcision?
19. Christian century onward in western countries are also medical reasons has been frequently. Since then discussed the benefits of circumcision in these societies Although not a common consensus. However, circumcision, the glans provides continuous cleaning. Be circumcised, many scientists who believe that fewer urinary tract infection.
Protection from sexually transmitted diseases, and many of preventing the spread of this disease emphasizes the importance of circumcision are numerous reports.
Under warm and moist environment of circumcision course settled here and the proliferation of infectious agents easier. HIV infection is common in circumcised men compared to uncircumcised disease in African countries, from 1.5 to 8.4 times more than were reported.
Research is done to every male circumcision in the Muslim and Jewish communities of glans cancer and cervical cancer in spouses showed less of the occurrence.
To whom should NEVER TO CIRCUMCISION?
Circumcised or circumcised prophets among the people so called HALF the children should be circumcised must be evaluated by a specialist in pediatric surgery. Because those of us hypospadias (urine hole penis to the front opening), epispadias (urine hole penis back to opening), megalo-urethra (large urine hole), chordee deformity (penis curvature), penoscrotal adhesions called the disease may be a sign. These patients had surgery and during surgery, will be used for repair of the foreskin.
Bleeding, clotting disorders, heart or other chronic lung diseases and metabolic diseases, children who are evaluated by experts in the appropriate center should be circumcised.
WHAT TO DO in the STATUS are urgently CIRCUMCISION?
Urgent situations requiring circumcision is rare.
The foreskin of the penis behind the head to restore and re-withdrawing the case will begin to swell rapidly in the foreskin of the penis head will disrupt the circulation of blood in the penis by compressing. Parafimozis called an urgent evaluation by experts, this situation can have. Expert's intervention if circumcision to emergency needs arising as a result is correct.
Which the foreskin in a variety of injuries, foreign body trauma (fermura compression etc..) Require evaluation by experts, and the penis or to prevent damage to the urinary tract may require immediate circumcision.
My foreskin does not go back CHILDREN WHAT?
Overall, the babies when they are attached to the foreskin of the penis head. This prevents rotation of the foreskin backwards. This is the disease is not a normal situation. The foreskin of the penis mature with age and grows the foreskin starts to spin backwards. 2-year-olds to go back foreskin half, but 96% of cases had four-year-old children can turn back the foreskin.
Not turn back the foreskin is not a disease. Disease, but children are unable to urinate. If you do not like urine, dripping urination, urination was swollen like a balloon if the prepuce of the foreskin is thought to be the problem should be referred to specialists.
How old should CIRCUMCISION MAKE?
Circumcision as a surgical procedure can be performed at any age. However, children between the ages of 2-6 called the phallic period and this period is more negative effects on mental If an emergency should not be circumcised.
Can you make my children's birth, I CIRCUMCISION?
Early circumcision at an early age constitute a matter of debate among scientists. Foreskin, some scientists and various infections of the urinary tract infection, as suggested in the early period facilitated suggest circumcision. Newborn baby would still be those who have less pain. In the newborn period, but cases in older children until the child has just been proven to be pain. During the first six months of life after circumcision circumcision in infection, bleeding, inflammation, and most importantly, meatal stenosis (narrowing in the urine hole) are more common. If families want to make an early circumcision in cui receive information from experts about the situation and the timing of circumcision should plan accordingly.
CIRCUMCISION AND HOW TO WHICH MEETS MEDIA should be in?
Circumcision is a surgical procedure. Like all surgical procedures without exception, comply with all the surgical principles done. Circumcision of the child's mental state, fear of living should not be ignored. Circumcision in the operating room, no conditions should be preferred in terms of antisepsis. Like ours, and widely popular as the traditional circumcision is done too often in society are not being regarded as circumcision and the surgical procedures are kept almost a pierced ears. Circumcision is a surgical procedure in the patient's psychology, then the appropriate surgical environment should be done by providing appropriate environments. Circumcision in the operating room under general anesthesia and can create the appropriate environment. When families decide to do the circumcision circumcision must be done in the questioning of how and in what conditions are needed.
CREATING PROBLEMS ARE POSSIBLE AFTER CIRCUMCISION can?
Circumcision is not performed properly in an appropriate environment after the hemorrhage, infection, penis, head injuries, ulcers, urethral meatus (urinary opening is on the edge of injury) and narrowing on the edge of the hole in the urine may occur.
2010-09-08
Penis Health Tips for Teen Boys
One of the most sensitive organ is the penis of men who, through their bodies, the body that are most in need of attention. Vüudun not in the body because the penis is an organ other than the very precise. The most important organs of the male reproductive system, the penis is also an excretory organ. Penis into the structure of spongy structure in the region, except in one case, called the epidermis is composed of. This gives flexibility to the penis sheath. In sexual intercourse in the vagina or penis, this move makes more comfortable. The spongy layer inside the penis in the erect penis to harden while in other parts of his body with the bony structures remain fixed obstacles such as other organs. With porous structure does not lose elasticity even hardened penis.
Impacts of this important member of the male body is very sensitive. In the outer regions of the body is due to open to outside influences. Therefore, protecting the health of the penis, the first phase is to protect it from external influences. Impact may come from outside of the ball, a hard blow during a fight or an accident, major damage to the penis may come to blows on him and may even cause infertility in men.
Threatening the health of the penis tight underwear are other external factors. Generally narrow and low waist trousers for male boxers prefer to wear. But this dress with a large penis is harmful to health. Constantly applied pressure on the inner lining of his penis hurt. This can lead to unevenness in the penis. Under tight clothing as well as the crushing of the testicles, which cause sterility is another issue.
It is very important to protect the health of the penis clean. Genital area of men's hair is very dense. The hair around the penis should be cleaned weekly intervals. Would otherwise occur in this region of bacterial infection, can cause foul odors, and even sexual warts. Get the easiest way to make the penis clean is to use a depilatory cream. Piercing instruments such as razor cuts on his penis, can cause bleeding.
Penis health is closely related to the food we eat. Health food supplements from the penis in males have not performed properly, can not be mentioned. Not only the penis and healthy function of other organs of the body gerçekleştirelemez. Therefore, feeding should be considered. The most effective way of protecting the health of the penis is to take vitamin E. Besides, a handful of nuts a day to beat me and he penisiin is important for sexual health protection.
Much emphasis on the health of the penis is not an issue in our country, unfortunately. Pull the penis for men, they are afraid to ask doctors about their problems. Whereas a man's penis, which determines gender identity, reproduction, providing stool is extremely important and sensitive organs. Since the penis, which symbolizes the power of male organ is nearly synonymous with manhood. I therefore understand and prioritize the health of the organs of protection should not be afraid to go to a specialist in question must be asked in an open manner.
Impacts of this important member of the male body is very sensitive. In the outer regions of the body is due to open to outside influences. Therefore, protecting the health of the penis, the first phase is to protect it from external influences. Impact may come from outside of the ball, a hard blow during a fight or an accident, major damage to the penis may come to blows on him and may even cause infertility in men.
Threatening the health of the penis tight underwear are other external factors. Generally narrow and low waist trousers for male boxers prefer to wear. But this dress with a large penis is harmful to health. Constantly applied pressure on the inner lining of his penis hurt. This can lead to unevenness in the penis. Under tight clothing as well as the crushing of the testicles, which cause sterility is another issue.
It is very important to protect the health of the penis clean. Genital area of men's hair is very dense. The hair around the penis should be cleaned weekly intervals. Would otherwise occur in this region of bacterial infection, can cause foul odors, and even sexual warts. Get the easiest way to make the penis clean is to use a depilatory cream. Piercing instruments such as razor cuts on his penis, can cause bleeding.
Penis health is closely related to the food we eat. Health food supplements from the penis in males have not performed properly, can not be mentioned. Not only the penis and healthy function of other organs of the body gerçekleştirelemez. Therefore, feeding should be considered. The most effective way of protecting the health of the penis is to take vitamin E. Besides, a handful of nuts a day to beat me and he penisiin is important for sexual health protection.
Much emphasis on the health of the penis is not an issue in our country, unfortunately. Pull the penis for men, they are afraid to ask doctors about their problems. Whereas a man's penis, which determines gender identity, reproduction, providing stool is extremely important and sensitive organs. Since the penis, which symbolizes the power of male organ is nearly synonymous with manhood. I therefore understand and prioritize the health of the organs of protection should not be afraid to go to a specialist in question must be asked in an open manner.
About Oral Sex for Teen Boys
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What is the sex allergy?
SEX WHAT IS ALLERGY?
Over a thousand women in the study at the University of Cincinati, at a rate of 12 per cent of women were found to have allergies spree.
Emre Akkus Associate Professor of Urology Department of the Faculty of Medicine dalınden also cause infertility in women, this allergy, he said.
Hot flashes, some percentage of skin reactions, as well as itching and swelling as the most significant allergic reactions have been announced. Meanwhile, the constant sneezing, should be interesting.
Look, the experts of the disease, how the rankings are the reasons:
"Physiologically, fluid against the sperm is likely to cause allergic reactions in some women. Because the fluid within spree provide only sperm to fertilize, but his sperm fertilization capability, capacity, fast motion stimuli, vitality and energy to fertilize the egg proteins in the process is vital. Hypersensitivity, especially in some of these proteins in humans, it is possible to cause allergic reactions.
These reactions, with just some food, air pollution due to allergies in humans, which may manifest with similar symptoms.
Meanwhile, in the vagina or cervix in women's self-defense and resistance against sperm by releasing some items may be too. These substances, antibodies against sperm by creating obstacles spremlerin function.
Immune mechanisms of this phenomenon depends on the "sterility" is called. To detect such a state of sexual intercourse within the next one to two hours of laboratory analysis of fluid taken from the cervix (Post-koital test) should be done.
Over a thousand women in the study at the University of Cincinati, at a rate of 12 per cent of women were found to have allergies spree.
Emre Akkus Associate Professor of Urology Department of the Faculty of Medicine dalınden also cause infertility in women, this allergy, he said.
Hot flashes, some percentage of skin reactions, as well as itching and swelling as the most significant allergic reactions have been announced. Meanwhile, the constant sneezing, should be interesting.
Look, the experts of the disease, how the rankings are the reasons:
"Physiologically, fluid against the sperm is likely to cause allergic reactions in some women. Because the fluid within spree provide only sperm to fertilize, but his sperm fertilization capability, capacity, fast motion stimuli, vitality and energy to fertilize the egg proteins in the process is vital. Hypersensitivity, especially in some of these proteins in humans, it is possible to cause allergic reactions.
These reactions, with just some food, air pollution due to allergies in humans, which may manifest with similar symptoms.
Meanwhile, in the vagina or cervix in women's self-defense and resistance against sperm by releasing some items may be too. These substances, antibodies against sperm by creating obstacles spremlerin function.
Immune mechanisms of this phenomenon depends on the "sterility" is called. To detect such a state of sexual intercourse within the next one to two hours of laboratory analysis of fluid taken from the cervix (Post-koital test) should be done.
The causes of erectile problems
The causes of erectile problems
Lifestyle related factors:
● Cigarette
● Alcohol addiction
● Stress
● Obesity
● The common medical conditions:
● Diabetes
● Heart Disease
● High blood pressure
● High cholesterol
● Vascular stiffness
● Depression
● Prostate cancer surgery
● bowel cancer surgery
● Kidney failure
● Spinal cord injury
● Multiple Sclerosis
● Some medications (when used for a long time):
● Brackets diuretic (diuretics)
● Blood pressure drugs
● Cholesterol lowering drugs
● Diabetes drugs
● Depression drugs
● Some drugs used in cancer treatment
● Some ulcer medications
Lifestyle related factors:
● Cigarette
● Alcohol addiction
● Stress
● Obesity
● The common medical conditions:
● Diabetes
● Heart Disease
● High blood pressure
● High cholesterol
● Vascular stiffness
● Depression
● Prostate cancer surgery
● bowel cancer surgery
● Kidney failure
● Spinal cord injury
● Multiple Sclerosis
● Some medications (when used for a long time):
● Brackets diuretic (diuretics)
● Blood pressure drugs
● Cholesterol lowering drugs
● Diabetes drugs
● Depression drugs
● Some drugs used in cancer treatment
● Some ulcer medications
2010-09-06
Best 10 Tips for promoting health walks
You know the benefits that health walks bring. You know that, once people come along, they tend to be hooked and come back.
However, it isn't always easy to reach the right people. Different schemes have devised different ways of promoting themselves successfully.
Some of the best examples are given below. Click on the links to read more about each one, or skip straight to our list of case stories.
1. Link with significant local organisations
2. Publicise as widely as possible
3. Give presentations and plan a variety of walks
4. Allow time
5. Value volunteers and existing enthusiasts
6. Make good use of our WalkFinder
7. Dream up incentives and competitions
8. Use local press and radio
9. Set a pedometer challenge
10. Make best use of WfH promotional material
Get involved
Now tell us your best or quirkiest ideas for promoting your health walk scheme and we will post the most inspiring on our website.
However, it isn't always easy to reach the right people. Different schemes have devised different ways of promoting themselves successfully.
Some of the best examples are given below. Click on the links to read more about each one, or skip straight to our list of case stories.
1. Link with significant local organisations
2. Publicise as widely as possible
3. Give presentations and plan a variety of walks
4. Allow time
5. Value volunteers and existing enthusiasts
6. Make good use of our WalkFinder
7. Dream up incentives and competitions
8. Use local press and radio
9. Set a pedometer challenge
10. Make best use of WfH promotional material
Get involved
Now tell us your best or quirkiest ideas for promoting your health walk scheme and we will post the most inspiring on our website.
Genital herpes for teen boys
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a virus called the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two types of the virus and they can infect the mouth and nose (cold sores), the genital and anal area and the skin around your fingers (whitlows).
What causes genital herpes and who can get them?
Genital herpes is caused by a virus which can be passed on through skin-to-skin contact with an infected person.
Anybody can get genital herpes if they come in contact with an infected person. People that have close genital contact with a partner they do not know very well are especially at risk. It’s important to know that a condom will not fully protect you as the virus is transmitted via skin contact and the condom will not cover the entire genital area.
What are the signs and symptoms of the first outbreak of genital herpes?
The trouble with genital herpes is that after the first outbreak the virus hides away and can stay undetected in your system. Many people do not have any visible signs or symptoms, or if they do they may not be aware of them.
If you do get signs or symptoms, these can be all or some of the things below:
Feeling unwell with flu-like symptoms like fever, tiredness, headache, and aches and pains in your lower back and groin.
Stinging, tingling or itching in your genital or anal area.
Small, fluid-filled blisters in your genital or anal area, on your buttocks and the tops of your thighs. The blisters burst quickly leaving small painful sores.
It can also hurt when passing urine (weeing) as the urine passes over the sores.
Symptoms will usually appear 4-5 days after coming into contact with the virus. Sometimes they do not appear for weeks, months or possibly years later.
How is it normally diagnosed and treated?
Your doctor, local sexual health or genitourinary medicine clinic (GUM clinic) will be able to take a swab from the infected area and confirm whether you have caught genital herpes.
During a swab test, a sample of fluid will be taken from a blister and sent away for analysis. This fluid will show whether you have the herpes simplex virus (HSV) in your system.
If you have genital herpes antiviral medication is available as tablets. These stop the virus from spreading in your system and help to relieve the pain but do not clear the virus from your body completely. There is no cure for genital herpes at the moment but the symptoms often clear up on their own.
Antiviral medication is most effective during the first instance of genital herpes when the symptoms tend to be at their worst.
If your sores are very painful keep the infected area as cool as possible by wearing loose cotton underwear. An icepack, wrapped in a clean tea towel and held against the area for a few minutes, can also help to soothe the sores. Avoid using scented soaps, shower gels, or bubble bath, as well because they can irritate the sensitive affected area.
Episodes of genital herpes will vary in length for different people; how long they last depends on your general state of health and whether it is an initial or recurrent outbreak.
Can it be prevented?
Herpes is very infectious and is passed on easily through all forms of sexual or close physical contact.
The best way to stop this from happening is to avoid:
Having unprotected sex with a new partner. Always use condoms!
Kissing when you or your partner have cold sores around the mouth.
Having oral sex when you and your partner have mouth or genital sores.
Having any genital or anal contact, even with a condom, when you or your partner have genital sores.
Using saliva to wet contact lenses if you have sores around your mouth.
When should I seek medical help?
If you think that you may have genital herpes, you should see your GP as soon as possible. Diagnosis is easier and more accurate when you have the symptoms.
Looking forward
There are some ‘myths’ about genital herpes that a lot of people worry about but….
It doesn’t affect a girl’s fertility
It is not hereditary
And it is not linked to cervical cancer.
Once you have the virus in your system you will be susceptible to recurrent episodes but the signs and symptoms are usually milder and will go away more quickly.
Occasionally the blisters caused by the virus can become infected by other bacteria. This can lead to a skin infection that can spread to other parts of the body but this is rare
What causes genital herpes and who can get them?
Genital herpes is caused by a virus which can be passed on through skin-to-skin contact with an infected person.
Anybody can get genital herpes if they come in contact with an infected person. People that have close genital contact with a partner they do not know very well are especially at risk. It’s important to know that a condom will not fully protect you as the virus is transmitted via skin contact and the condom will not cover the entire genital area.
What are the signs and symptoms of the first outbreak of genital herpes?
The trouble with genital herpes is that after the first outbreak the virus hides away and can stay undetected in your system. Many people do not have any visible signs or symptoms, or if they do they may not be aware of them.
If you do get signs or symptoms, these can be all or some of the things below:
Feeling unwell with flu-like symptoms like fever, tiredness, headache, and aches and pains in your lower back and groin.
Stinging, tingling or itching in your genital or anal area.
Small, fluid-filled blisters in your genital or anal area, on your buttocks and the tops of your thighs. The blisters burst quickly leaving small painful sores.
It can also hurt when passing urine (weeing) as the urine passes over the sores.
Symptoms will usually appear 4-5 days after coming into contact with the virus. Sometimes they do not appear for weeks, months or possibly years later.
How is it normally diagnosed and treated?
Your doctor, local sexual health or genitourinary medicine clinic (GUM clinic) will be able to take a swab from the infected area and confirm whether you have caught genital herpes.
During a swab test, a sample of fluid will be taken from a blister and sent away for analysis. This fluid will show whether you have the herpes simplex virus (HSV) in your system.
If you have genital herpes antiviral medication is available as tablets. These stop the virus from spreading in your system and help to relieve the pain but do not clear the virus from your body completely. There is no cure for genital herpes at the moment but the symptoms often clear up on their own.
Antiviral medication is most effective during the first instance of genital herpes when the symptoms tend to be at their worst.
If your sores are very painful keep the infected area as cool as possible by wearing loose cotton underwear. An icepack, wrapped in a clean tea towel and held against the area for a few minutes, can also help to soothe the sores. Avoid using scented soaps, shower gels, or bubble bath, as well because they can irritate the sensitive affected area.
Episodes of genital herpes will vary in length for different people; how long they last depends on your general state of health and whether it is an initial or recurrent outbreak.
Can it be prevented?
Herpes is very infectious and is passed on easily through all forms of sexual or close physical contact.
The best way to stop this from happening is to avoid:
Having unprotected sex with a new partner. Always use condoms!
Kissing when you or your partner have cold sores around the mouth.
Having oral sex when you and your partner have mouth or genital sores.
Having any genital or anal contact, even with a condom, when you or your partner have genital sores.
Using saliva to wet contact lenses if you have sores around your mouth.
When should I seek medical help?
If you think that you may have genital herpes, you should see your GP as soon as possible. Diagnosis is easier and more accurate when you have the symptoms.
Looking forward
There are some ‘myths’ about genital herpes that a lot of people worry about but….
It doesn’t affect a girl’s fertility
It is not hereditary
And it is not linked to cervical cancer.
Once you have the virus in your system you will be susceptible to recurrent episodes but the signs and symptoms are usually milder and will go away more quickly.
Occasionally the blisters caused by the virus can become infected by other bacteria. This can lead to a skin infection that can spread to other parts of the body but this is rare
All you wanted to know about your penis
Willy, cock, knob, dick, tool, snake, love machine…the list goes on…but whatever you call yours they’re often the cause of concern for many male teenagers. So to put your mind at ease Children First for Health has got the low-down on the penis.
Does size really matter?
Many boys worry about the size and shape of their penis. Is it too small? Too big? Too thin? Does it hang straight? Or does it curve slightly to one side? Yet penises come in all shapes and sizes and all are very different. The average length of a penis when it is flaccid (not erect) is around 3 to 4 inches whereas when it is hard it is around 5 to 7 inches. However, your penis size can depend on many things like the weather, your body shape, pubic hair and even ethnicity. Your penis also doesn’t stop growing until you reach the ages of 18 to 21, so don’t fret yet if you feel yours is too small.
What is a penis?
The penis is made up of a shaft, the glans (head/helmet) and the prepuce (foreskin).
You pee through the urethra which is a tube that passes through the penis and carries both urine from the bladder and semen from the testicles. If you have been circumcised then you won’t have a foreskin. This is surgically removed at a young age for cultural and religious reasons.
Erections
Most boys start to experience erections when they reach puberty. They happen when you get sexually aroused and extra blood flows to the penis. This causes the penis to swell and grow large and hard. Sometimes erections are referred to as a hard-on or a boner, although there aren’t actually any bones in the penis!
Wet dreams
If you’ve woken up in the morning to find your bed sheets are wet then chances are you’ve experienced a wet dream. This is where you become sexually aroused and ejaculate (come) in your sleep. Lots of boys have wet dreams during their teens although they become less frequent as you become older and your hormones level out.
Blue balls
You may heard the term blue balls. This is used to describe an uncomfortable feeling in the testicles. This can happen if you get an erection but don’t actually ejaculate. The feeling doesn’t last long but it can cause discomfort.
Lump and bumps
Most men will have a few bumps on their penis. Common bumps include sebaceous glands on the surface of the skin. You’ll find them on the shaft and are totally natural. They are usually yellow in colour and secrete an oily substance called sebum.
Other bumps include pearly papules. These are small hard white bumps on the head of the penis. Some people mistake them for genital warts but again they are harmless and require no treatment as long as you don’t squeeze or pop them.
Your penis can also get the occasional spot and pimple which may cause some discomfort. If you are sexually active however, bumps or lumps could indicate that you have a sexually transmitted infection like herpes or genital warts. If you have any concerns about STIs contact your local GP immediately just to be on the safe side.
Does size really matter?
Many boys worry about the size and shape of their penis. Is it too small? Too big? Too thin? Does it hang straight? Or does it curve slightly to one side? Yet penises come in all shapes and sizes and all are very different. The average length of a penis when it is flaccid (not erect) is around 3 to 4 inches whereas when it is hard it is around 5 to 7 inches. However, your penis size can depend on many things like the weather, your body shape, pubic hair and even ethnicity. Your penis also doesn’t stop growing until you reach the ages of 18 to 21, so don’t fret yet if you feel yours is too small.
What is a penis?
The penis is made up of a shaft, the glans (head/helmet) and the prepuce (foreskin).
You pee through the urethra which is a tube that passes through the penis and carries both urine from the bladder and semen from the testicles. If you have been circumcised then you won’t have a foreskin. This is surgically removed at a young age for cultural and religious reasons.
Erections
Most boys start to experience erections when they reach puberty. They happen when you get sexually aroused and extra blood flows to the penis. This causes the penis to swell and grow large and hard. Sometimes erections are referred to as a hard-on or a boner, although there aren’t actually any bones in the penis!
Wet dreams
If you’ve woken up in the morning to find your bed sheets are wet then chances are you’ve experienced a wet dream. This is where you become sexually aroused and ejaculate (come) in your sleep. Lots of boys have wet dreams during their teens although they become less frequent as you become older and your hormones level out.
Blue balls
You may heard the term blue balls. This is used to describe an uncomfortable feeling in the testicles. This can happen if you get an erection but don’t actually ejaculate. The feeling doesn’t last long but it can cause discomfort.
Lump and bumps
Most men will have a few bumps on their penis. Common bumps include sebaceous glands on the surface of the skin. You’ll find them on the shaft and are totally natural. They are usually yellow in colour and secrete an oily substance called sebum.
Other bumps include pearly papules. These are small hard white bumps on the head of the penis. Some people mistake them for genital warts but again they are harmless and require no treatment as long as you don’t squeeze or pop them.
Your penis can also get the occasional spot and pimple which may cause some discomfort. If you are sexually active however, bumps or lumps could indicate that you have a sexually transmitted infection like herpes or genital warts. If you have any concerns about STIs contact your local GP immediately just to be on the safe side.
Teenage mums
Britain has the highest teenage pregnancy rates in Western Europe - yet when it comes to talking about sex and parenting young people are still reluctant to speak out. Children First for Health talked to two young mums about their experiences...
Ann Marie's story
"It was a complete surprise when the doctor told me. In fact I thought it was some kind of joke. My periods have always been irregular, so when I missed three in a row it never occurred I could actually be pregnant. Yet looking back all the signs were there: bellyache, feeling sick, eating tons and having cravings for chicken and chips in the early hours of the morning! It amazes me how naïve I was.
I'd just turned 16 and was in the middle of doing a GNVQ in travel and tourism. My aim was to travel the world and have a career. How could I have a baby when I was still living at home and had just split from my then boyfriend? But by then it was too late - a termination wasn't an option.
At first my ex didn't believe the baby was his, which was obviously upsetting. We'd been going out for a year, and during that time I had never been unfaithful. I thought he might eventually warm to the idea but instead he decided to take off.
My mum was brilliant throughout my pregnancy. You know if it wasn't for her and a pregnant teacher at college, I would never have continued with my studies and passed my GNVQ with merit. Just having people to share and talk through my experiences was really helpful. Particularly since I was the only child in my family and had never been around kids, let alone held a baby.
Daijon was born two months after my exams. I ended up having a water pool birth, which was great, and I was only in labour for about two hours. I guess that's one of the advantages of having a child young, your body can adjust to change quickly, so not too many stretch marks!
My life is very different now, but I do really enjoy being a mum. OK I can't go out with my friends every night and changing his nappy isn't a bed of roses. But what I have is very special and Dajion makes me laugh. Even some of my friends have admitted they're envious of my life style.
I'm going back to college in September to study an A level in business and law. I think it's important for me to have an education and one day I want to work in the city. I'm not bothered that Daijon's daddy isn't around because life is getting better everyday and who knows I might eventually meet someone. But for now my number one priority is Daijon."
Janay's Story
"I was going out with a guy for six months. We would fool around and have sex but I never thought you could get pregnant every time. I would go to the health clinic to check myself for STDs but for some reason I didn't care when it came to contraception. Like a lot of my friends I was just 'lax about it. And looking back I know I was silly but that's just the way it was.
When I found out the news I was actually happy. I thought having a baby was cool and luckily my mum was 100% percent behind me although she made it quite clear that this was going to be my child!
But then it all got a bit stressful coz my boyfriend wanted me to have an abortion and then left me. I also had my GCSEs and fell out big time with my mum. I guess my hormones were all over the place so I ended up moving out into a hostel, which was horrible and full of mice. I didn't want to bring up my child in that place so I did get a bit depressed for a while. The only good thing was meeting a lovely guy in there who was willing to take me on.
Surprisingly I passed my GCSEs with flying colours: I got a B in English and a C in maths. Then little Amarie arrived. I thought I'd made up his name but apparently in African it means little prince.
I have absolutely no regrets about having him. The only thing I would have liked to have done is finished my GCSEs with my friends and gone on holiday with them. But apart from that I feel sorted and being a young mum does have its benefits, I guess I've got a lot of energy to run around.
I got married a month ago and since moved into a nice two bedroom flat. I've decided to go to college in the evenings to study to be a legal secretary and during the day I'm looking for a customer services type job.
Just because you're a teenage mum doesn't mean your life stops here. Yeah it's probably a bit harder and a little different. But I like it."
Ann Marie's story
"It was a complete surprise when the doctor told me. In fact I thought it was some kind of joke. My periods have always been irregular, so when I missed three in a row it never occurred I could actually be pregnant. Yet looking back all the signs were there: bellyache, feeling sick, eating tons and having cravings for chicken and chips in the early hours of the morning! It amazes me how naïve I was.
I'd just turned 16 and was in the middle of doing a GNVQ in travel and tourism. My aim was to travel the world and have a career. How could I have a baby when I was still living at home and had just split from my then boyfriend? But by then it was too late - a termination wasn't an option.
At first my ex didn't believe the baby was his, which was obviously upsetting. We'd been going out for a year, and during that time I had never been unfaithful. I thought he might eventually warm to the idea but instead he decided to take off.
My mum was brilliant throughout my pregnancy. You know if it wasn't for her and a pregnant teacher at college, I would never have continued with my studies and passed my GNVQ with merit. Just having people to share and talk through my experiences was really helpful. Particularly since I was the only child in my family and had never been around kids, let alone held a baby.
Daijon was born two months after my exams. I ended up having a water pool birth, which was great, and I was only in labour for about two hours. I guess that's one of the advantages of having a child young, your body can adjust to change quickly, so not too many stretch marks!
My life is very different now, but I do really enjoy being a mum. OK I can't go out with my friends every night and changing his nappy isn't a bed of roses. But what I have is very special and Dajion makes me laugh. Even some of my friends have admitted they're envious of my life style.
I'm going back to college in September to study an A level in business and law. I think it's important for me to have an education and one day I want to work in the city. I'm not bothered that Daijon's daddy isn't around because life is getting better everyday and who knows I might eventually meet someone. But for now my number one priority is Daijon."
Janay's Story
"I was going out with a guy for six months. We would fool around and have sex but I never thought you could get pregnant every time. I would go to the health clinic to check myself for STDs but for some reason I didn't care when it came to contraception. Like a lot of my friends I was just 'lax about it. And looking back I know I was silly but that's just the way it was.
When I found out the news I was actually happy. I thought having a baby was cool and luckily my mum was 100% percent behind me although she made it quite clear that this was going to be my child!
But then it all got a bit stressful coz my boyfriend wanted me to have an abortion and then left me. I also had my GCSEs and fell out big time with my mum. I guess my hormones were all over the place so I ended up moving out into a hostel, which was horrible and full of mice. I didn't want to bring up my child in that place so I did get a bit depressed for a while. The only good thing was meeting a lovely guy in there who was willing to take me on.
Surprisingly I passed my GCSEs with flying colours: I got a B in English and a C in maths. Then little Amarie arrived. I thought I'd made up his name but apparently in African it means little prince.
I have absolutely no regrets about having him. The only thing I would have liked to have done is finished my GCSEs with my friends and gone on holiday with them. But apart from that I feel sorted and being a young mum does have its benefits, I guess I've got a lot of energy to run around.
I got married a month ago and since moved into a nice two bedroom flat. I've decided to go to college in the evenings to study to be a legal secretary and during the day I'm looking for a customer services type job.
Just because you're a teenage mum doesn't mean your life stops here. Yeah it's probably a bit harder and a little different. But I like it."
Housework workout for Teen Boys
Fitness expert Nicki Waterman shares her tips on how to turn your housework chores into exercises to burn calories, lose weight and tone up.
Doing four or more household chores a day can help you lose weight, tone up, and keep fit and healthy. The key is to take advantage of every movement that you make.
Make a conscious effort to contract your stomach muscles (it's like a stomach crunch without having to do the action of a crunch), keep your knees slightly bent and maintain good posture throughout.
Warm-ups
Put on your favourite music and start with some light housework, such as straightening and picking things up, or dusting for three to five minutes. You know you've warmed up enough when your joints feel looser and your muscles are flexible but you're not breaking a sweat.
Window-washing triceps circles
Target: shoulders and triceps
Do 10 circles to the right, then 10 to the left. This is a great all-purpose cleaning motion. The more you put into it, the more you get out of it. Do it while polishing furniture or cleaning the bath.
Vacuum cleaner lunges
Target: upper back, legs and buttock muscles
Tense your muscles as far as you can while pushing the vacuum forward , then back again. The vacuum will offer good resistance if it's heavy enough, but make sure that you move slowly enough to get a good stretch.
Ironing
Target: shoulders, arms and buttock muscles
While ironing, squeeze your buttock cheeks together hard for 10 seconds. Do this 10 times every couple of minutes. You'll soon notice a difference in tone. This is because the muscles in the bottom will hold in a semi-flexed position for up to 20 minutes after working the muscle.
Laundry squats
Target: legs, buttocks and thighs
Slowly squat when picking up dirty laundry. Keep your back straight and your heels on the floor. Don’t let your upper back tilt forward. Include one squat for every piece of laundry you put into the basket.
Shelf-organising thigh buster
Target: calves, thighs and buttocks
Step up and down a short stepladder (three or four steps) 10 times, alternating your feet. While you're up there, dust a shelf or two. You can do this exercise while organising your cupboards or rearranging the books in your bookcase.
Washing the tops of your doors and skirting boards
Target: full body
Not everybody has a ladder and bucket, but even stepping up and down on a sturdy chair to clean the patio doors can help. It involves a lot of stretching, and use of the arm and leg muscles.
Scrubbing the floor
Target: arms and tummy
Scrub your sink, bathroom or kitchen floor by hand, not a mop. The harder you work, the better. Push yourself even more by extending your torso and exaggerating your arm movements.
Making the bed
Target: upper body
Making a bed uses up lots of energy. Taking off the sheets, turning the mattress, pulling the sheets straight, and plumping up pillows and duvets are all great calorie burners.
Finish off with a five to 10-minute cool-down, stretching as you reach to put away the dishes or make the beds.
Doing four or more household chores a day can help you lose weight, tone up, and keep fit and healthy. The key is to take advantage of every movement that you make.
Make a conscious effort to contract your stomach muscles (it's like a stomach crunch without having to do the action of a crunch), keep your knees slightly bent and maintain good posture throughout.
Warm-ups
Put on your favourite music and start with some light housework, such as straightening and picking things up, or dusting for three to five minutes. You know you've warmed up enough when your joints feel looser and your muscles are flexible but you're not breaking a sweat.
Window-washing triceps circles
Target: shoulders and triceps
Do 10 circles to the right, then 10 to the left. This is a great all-purpose cleaning motion. The more you put into it, the more you get out of it. Do it while polishing furniture or cleaning the bath.
Vacuum cleaner lunges
Target: upper back, legs and buttock muscles
Tense your muscles as far as you can while pushing the vacuum forward , then back again. The vacuum will offer good resistance if it's heavy enough, but make sure that you move slowly enough to get a good stretch.
Ironing
Target: shoulders, arms and buttock muscles
While ironing, squeeze your buttock cheeks together hard for 10 seconds. Do this 10 times every couple of minutes. You'll soon notice a difference in tone. This is because the muscles in the bottom will hold in a semi-flexed position for up to 20 minutes after working the muscle.
Laundry squats
Target: legs, buttocks and thighs
Slowly squat when picking up dirty laundry. Keep your back straight and your heels on the floor. Don’t let your upper back tilt forward. Include one squat for every piece of laundry you put into the basket.
Shelf-organising thigh buster
Target: calves, thighs and buttocks
Step up and down a short stepladder (three or four steps) 10 times, alternating your feet. While you're up there, dust a shelf or two. You can do this exercise while organising your cupboards or rearranging the books in your bookcase.
Washing the tops of your doors and skirting boards
Target: full body
Not everybody has a ladder and bucket, but even stepping up and down on a sturdy chair to clean the patio doors can help. It involves a lot of stretching, and use of the arm and leg muscles.
Scrubbing the floor
Target: arms and tummy
Scrub your sink, bathroom or kitchen floor by hand, not a mop. The harder you work, the better. Push yourself even more by extending your torso and exaggerating your arm movements.
Making the bed
Target: upper body
Making a bed uses up lots of energy. Taking off the sheets, turning the mattress, pulling the sheets straight, and plumping up pillows and duvets are all great calorie burners.
Finish off with a five to 10-minute cool-down, stretching as you reach to put away the dishes or make the beds.
How much exercise for teen boys?
Recommended activity levels for children and adults for general health, including simple ideas on building exercise into your day.
How much physical activity you should do depends on where you’re starting from.
Your age, general health and current activity levels will determine how far you can push yourself.
If you haven't been doing much for a while, don't worry. Evidence shows that inactive people achieve more immediate benefits from resuming activity than those who are already fit.
Many people’s views on exercise are formed during school PE lessons while running in cold muddy playing fields in T-shirts and shorts.
People are also put off by TV images of exhausted amateur marathon runners, or myths such as “no pain, no gain” and “I’m too old to start”.
But getting active doesn’t mean going to the gym, sweating on a treadmill or playing for your pub team on a wintry weekend.
Physical activity is very broadly defined. Basically, it’s any movement that makes you feel warm and slightly out of breath.
Someone who's unfit or overweight may only have to walk up a slope to get this feeling, whereas an athlete can run quite fast before noticing it.
Physical activity includes a range of movement, from competitive sport and exercise to active hobbies, walking, cycling or household activities, such as housework and DIY.
Adults should do a minimum of 30 minutes moderate-intensity physical activity, at least five days a week. For children and young people, the target is at least 60 minutes a day.
You don't have to do 30 minutes in one go. Your half-hour could be made up of three 10-minute bursts of activity spread out through the day. Check out the Ten-minute workouts article for some inspiration.
This can include a lifestyle activity (e.g. walking to the shops or taking the dog out), a structured exercise or sport, or a combination of these.
“You benefit from the total amount of activity you do throughout the week rather than how hard you push yourself,” says Nick Cavill, a health promotion consultant.
Active lifestyles
The best way to ensure that you keep active over the long term is to include activity in your everyday life. You could walk or cycle instead of travelling by car.
Or you could take up active leisure pursuits and hobbies, such as gardening, or social sporting activities, such as dancing or rambling.
Remember, the health benefits of physical activity only last as long as you remain active. “You can’t store physical activity in the bank,” says Cavill. “It has to be current and regular to provide any health benefit.”
Here’s some advice on recommended activity levels based on age and health:
Children and young people
Children and young people should do at least 60 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each day. At least twice a week, this should include activities that strengthen bone and muscles, and increase flexibility.
This can be achieved in bouts of activity throughout the day, including:
playing during school breaks
walking to and from school
PE classes
sport
swimming
bike rides
games
Adults
For general health, adults should do a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity, at least five days a week. You can achieve this by doing all the activity in one session or through shorter bouts of 10 minutes or more.
It can include:
walking or cycling part of your journey to work
using the stairs
doing manual tasks
Your routine could include two to three more intense sessions, such as a sporting activity, the gym or swimming. During the weekend, consider:
longer walks
biking
swimming
sports activities
DIY
gardening
Older people
The recommendations for adults also apply to older people. The elderly should take particular care to keep moving and maintain their mobility through daily activity. Activities that boost strength, co-ordination, balance and endurance are of particular benefit.
Suggested activities include daily:
walking
cycling
DIY
gardening
Take all small opportunities to be active, such as taking the stairs or doing manual tasks. On weekends, consider longer walks, biking or swimming.
Overweight and obese
The 30-minutes-a-day guidelines can help you to manage your weight. But for many people, especially if there’s no change in diet, 45 to 60 minutes of activity each day may be needed to prevent obesity.
People who are obese may need to do 60 to 90 minutes a day to lose weight. Activities such as brisk walking or cycling can help you to lose weight as effectively as a supervised exercise programme.
How much physical activity you should do depends on where you’re starting from.
Your age, general health and current activity levels will determine how far you can push yourself.
If you haven't been doing much for a while, don't worry. Evidence shows that inactive people achieve more immediate benefits from resuming activity than those who are already fit.
Many people’s views on exercise are formed during school PE lessons while running in cold muddy playing fields in T-shirts and shorts.
People are also put off by TV images of exhausted amateur marathon runners, or myths such as “no pain, no gain” and “I’m too old to start”.
But getting active doesn’t mean going to the gym, sweating on a treadmill or playing for your pub team on a wintry weekend.
Physical activity is very broadly defined. Basically, it’s any movement that makes you feel warm and slightly out of breath.
Someone who's unfit or overweight may only have to walk up a slope to get this feeling, whereas an athlete can run quite fast before noticing it.
Physical activity includes a range of movement, from competitive sport and exercise to active hobbies, walking, cycling or household activities, such as housework and DIY.
Adults should do a minimum of 30 minutes moderate-intensity physical activity, at least five days a week. For children and young people, the target is at least 60 minutes a day.
You don't have to do 30 minutes in one go. Your half-hour could be made up of three 10-minute bursts of activity spread out through the day. Check out the Ten-minute workouts article for some inspiration.
This can include a lifestyle activity (e.g. walking to the shops or taking the dog out), a structured exercise or sport, or a combination of these.
“You benefit from the total amount of activity you do throughout the week rather than how hard you push yourself,” says Nick Cavill, a health promotion consultant.
Active lifestyles
The best way to ensure that you keep active over the long term is to include activity in your everyday life. You could walk or cycle instead of travelling by car.
Or you could take up active leisure pursuits and hobbies, such as gardening, or social sporting activities, such as dancing or rambling.
Remember, the health benefits of physical activity only last as long as you remain active. “You can’t store physical activity in the bank,” says Cavill. “It has to be current and regular to provide any health benefit.”
Here’s some advice on recommended activity levels based on age and health:
Children and young people
Children and young people should do at least 60 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each day. At least twice a week, this should include activities that strengthen bone and muscles, and increase flexibility.
This can be achieved in bouts of activity throughout the day, including:
playing during school breaks
walking to and from school
PE classes
sport
swimming
bike rides
games
Adults
For general health, adults should do a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity, at least five days a week. You can achieve this by doing all the activity in one session or through shorter bouts of 10 minutes or more.
It can include:
walking or cycling part of your journey to work
using the stairs
doing manual tasks
Your routine could include two to three more intense sessions, such as a sporting activity, the gym or swimming. During the weekend, consider:
longer walks
biking
swimming
sports activities
DIY
gardening
Older people
The recommendations for adults also apply to older people. The elderly should take particular care to keep moving and maintain their mobility through daily activity. Activities that boost strength, co-ordination, balance and endurance are of particular benefit.
Suggested activities include daily:
walking
cycling
DIY
gardening
Take all small opportunities to be active, such as taking the stairs or doing manual tasks. On weekends, consider longer walks, biking or swimming.
Overweight and obese
The 30-minutes-a-day guidelines can help you to manage your weight. But for many people, especially if there’s no change in diet, 45 to 60 minutes of activity each day may be needed to prevent obesity.
People who are obese may need to do 60 to 90 minutes a day to lose weight. Activities such as brisk walking or cycling can help you to lose weight as effectively as a supervised exercise programme.
First Time Sex for Teen Boys
Most people have sex for the first time when they're 16 or older, not before. If someone’s boasting about having sex, it’s possible that they’re pretending.
Although there's a legal age of consent, it’s not necessarily the right age for you to start having sex. And there are no rules about how long you have to be going out with someone before you do it. Being ready happens at different times for everyone. But don't decide to have sex just because your friends are pressuring you.
It's your decision
You can always choose whether you want to have sex, whoever you're with. Just because you've done it before, even with the same person, doesn’t mean that you have to do it again.
Working out whether you're ready is one of life’s big decisions. You're the only one who can, and should, decide. Whether you're thinking about losing your virginity or having sex again, remember the following tips.
Talk about it
It’s better to have an embarrassing talk about sex than an embarrassing sexual encounter before you’re ready. There are lots of things to think and talk about, such as: are you both ready? Will you be having sex for the right reasons and not because of peer pressure?
Sex isn’t the only aspect of a relationship, and there are other ways of enjoying each other’s company besides having sex. Discuss what you want and what you don’t want to do. You can do other things that you both like, such as talking, meeting each other’s family and friends, going to gigs or the cinema, doing sport, walking, and listening to music.
Safer sex
When you decide to have sex, there's the possibility of pregnancy and/or catching a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Whoever you're thinking of having sex with, it's important to talk about contraception and condoms before you have sex. Both of you have a responsibility to have this conversation.
Condoms
You need to use condoms to reduce the risk of catching an STI, whoever you are having sex with. If you're a boy/girl couple, you need to use an additional form of contraception to prevent an unintended pregnancy.
Contraception
There are 15 different kinds of contraception, including the implant, injection and the pill. Most kinds of contraception are used by girls, but both of you have a responsibility to consider which you will use. A pregnancy will affect both of you.
Lesbian, gay or bisexual couples
If you have lesbian, gay or bisexual sex you can still get or pass on STIs. You still need to know about contraception in case you have straight sex as well. Find out more about sexual health for women who have sex with women and for men who have sex with men.
How do I bring up the subject?
Starting a conversation about the different types of contraception could be a good way to start talking about other issues to do with sex, such as how you feel about it and what you do and don’t want to do. You could try saying, "I found out that there are 15 different types of contraception…If we were to have sex, which one should we use?"
And researching the options together will help both of you feel more confident and in control of the situation. Find out about the different types of contraception.
Scroll down to
watch a video on teenagers and love
The fpa website provides advice on all aspects of sexual health, and has leaflets for young people. Do your research to find out which type of contraception is the best for you, but remember always to use a condom as well.
You can get free and confidential advice about sex, contraception and abortion at any time. Visit your local doctor, community contraceptive clinic, sexual health or genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic (find your local services) or young persons clinic (call 0800 567123) to find out more.
Read the signs
Many people are surprised when a situation leads to sex, so learn to read the signs. If someone suggests that you find a quiet place, or makes lots of physcial contact, or suddenly tries to charm and flatter you, they might be thinking about sex, even if you’re not.
You need to decide whether you want to have sex. Don’t let someone else decide for you by just going along with it. Make the decision in advance and stay in control of the situation, especially if you've had alcohol, because you'll be less inhibited.
If you’re not sure that you can stay in control, avoid situations that could lead to sex, such as going to someone’s room or somewhere quiet.
Alcohol or drugs won't help
Many people have sex or lose their virginity when they’re drunk. After a few drinks, you're more likely to lose your judgement, and you may do things that you wouldn't do normally. You may regret your actions in the morning, and you won't be able to undo what you’ve done.
People are more likely to have sex without a condom when they're drunk, and this can lead to an STI or unintended pregnancy.
Find out more about sex, alcohol and keeping safe.
Questions to ask yourself
You need to have the confidence to work out how you want to respond if sex comes up, and how far to go. Ask yourself if you feel comfortable. Is it the right time, in the right place, and with the right person? Do you really trust the person, and do you feel the same way about one another?
Being in a relationship doesn’t mean that you have to have sex. Even if you’ve done it once or twice you still need to make sure that your boyfriend or girlfriend is as keen as you each time.
If you think you might have sex, ask yourself the following questions to help you make up your mind:
Does it feel right?
Do I love my partner?
Does he/she love me just as much?
Have we talked about using condoms, and was the talk OK?
Have we got contraception organised to protect against pregnancy?
Do I feel able to say ‘no’ at any point if I change my mind, and will we both be OK with that?
If you answer yes to all these questions, the time may be right. But if you answer yes to any of the questions below, it might not be:
Do I feel under pressure from anyone, such as my partner or friends?
Could I have any regrets afterwards?
Am I thinking about having sex just to impress my friends or keep up with them?
Am I thinking about having sex in order to keep my partner?
It’s hard to stay in control if you’re drunk. You should never feel under any pressure to have sex, whether it’s from your partner or your friends. It’s a big decision and you need to feel ready.
Sex and the law
The law says that it's legal for you to consent (agree) to sex from the age of 16. If you're under 16, you can get confidential contraceptive and sexual health services, including abortion. You can get free condoms from some GPs, community contraceptive or young persons clinics, and Brook Advisory Centres.
If you're under 13, the situation is different because the law says that you can’t consent to sex at this age.
Find out more about confidentiality, whatever your age, in Will they tell my parents?
Although there's a legal age of consent, it’s not necessarily the right age for you to start having sex. And there are no rules about how long you have to be going out with someone before you do it. Being ready happens at different times for everyone. But don't decide to have sex just because your friends are pressuring you.
It's your decision
You can always choose whether you want to have sex, whoever you're with. Just because you've done it before, even with the same person, doesn’t mean that you have to do it again.
Working out whether you're ready is one of life’s big decisions. You're the only one who can, and should, decide. Whether you're thinking about losing your virginity or having sex again, remember the following tips.
Talk about it
It’s better to have an embarrassing talk about sex than an embarrassing sexual encounter before you’re ready. There are lots of things to think and talk about, such as: are you both ready? Will you be having sex for the right reasons and not because of peer pressure?
Sex isn’t the only aspect of a relationship, and there are other ways of enjoying each other’s company besides having sex. Discuss what you want and what you don’t want to do. You can do other things that you both like, such as talking, meeting each other’s family and friends, going to gigs or the cinema, doing sport, walking, and listening to music.
Safer sex
When you decide to have sex, there's the possibility of pregnancy and/or catching a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Whoever you're thinking of having sex with, it's important to talk about contraception and condoms before you have sex. Both of you have a responsibility to have this conversation.
Condoms
You need to use condoms to reduce the risk of catching an STI, whoever you are having sex with. If you're a boy/girl couple, you need to use an additional form of contraception to prevent an unintended pregnancy.
Contraception
There are 15 different kinds of contraception, including the implant, injection and the pill. Most kinds of contraception are used by girls, but both of you have a responsibility to consider which you will use. A pregnancy will affect both of you.
Lesbian, gay or bisexual couples
If you have lesbian, gay or bisexual sex you can still get or pass on STIs. You still need to know about contraception in case you have straight sex as well. Find out more about sexual health for women who have sex with women and for men who have sex with men.
How do I bring up the subject?
Starting a conversation about the different types of contraception could be a good way to start talking about other issues to do with sex, such as how you feel about it and what you do and don’t want to do. You could try saying, "I found out that there are 15 different types of contraception…If we were to have sex, which one should we use?"
And researching the options together will help both of you feel more confident and in control of the situation. Find out about the different types of contraception.
Scroll down to
watch a video on teenagers and love
The fpa website provides advice on all aspects of sexual health, and has leaflets for young people. Do your research to find out which type of contraception is the best for you, but remember always to use a condom as well.
You can get free and confidential advice about sex, contraception and abortion at any time. Visit your local doctor, community contraceptive clinic, sexual health or genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic (find your local services) or young persons clinic (call 0800 567123) to find out more.
Read the signs
Many people are surprised when a situation leads to sex, so learn to read the signs. If someone suggests that you find a quiet place, or makes lots of physcial contact, or suddenly tries to charm and flatter you, they might be thinking about sex, even if you’re not.
You need to decide whether you want to have sex. Don’t let someone else decide for you by just going along with it. Make the decision in advance and stay in control of the situation, especially if you've had alcohol, because you'll be less inhibited.
If you’re not sure that you can stay in control, avoid situations that could lead to sex, such as going to someone’s room or somewhere quiet.
Alcohol or drugs won't help
Many people have sex or lose their virginity when they’re drunk. After a few drinks, you're more likely to lose your judgement, and you may do things that you wouldn't do normally. You may regret your actions in the morning, and you won't be able to undo what you’ve done.
People are more likely to have sex without a condom when they're drunk, and this can lead to an STI or unintended pregnancy.
Find out more about sex, alcohol and keeping safe.
Questions to ask yourself
You need to have the confidence to work out how you want to respond if sex comes up, and how far to go. Ask yourself if you feel comfortable. Is it the right time, in the right place, and with the right person? Do you really trust the person, and do you feel the same way about one another?
Being in a relationship doesn’t mean that you have to have sex. Even if you’ve done it once or twice you still need to make sure that your boyfriend or girlfriend is as keen as you each time.
If you think you might have sex, ask yourself the following questions to help you make up your mind:
Does it feel right?
Do I love my partner?
Does he/she love me just as much?
Have we talked about using condoms, and was the talk OK?
Have we got contraception organised to protect against pregnancy?
Do I feel able to say ‘no’ at any point if I change my mind, and will we both be OK with that?
If you answer yes to all these questions, the time may be right. But if you answer yes to any of the questions below, it might not be:
Do I feel under pressure from anyone, such as my partner or friends?
Could I have any regrets afterwards?
Am I thinking about having sex just to impress my friends or keep up with them?
Am I thinking about having sex in order to keep my partner?
It’s hard to stay in control if you’re drunk. You should never feel under any pressure to have sex, whether it’s from your partner or your friends. It’s a big decision and you need to feel ready.
Sex and the law
The law says that it's legal for you to consent (agree) to sex from the age of 16. If you're under 16, you can get confidential contraceptive and sexual health services, including abortion. You can get free condoms from some GPs, community contraceptive or young persons clinics, and Brook Advisory Centres.
If you're under 13, the situation is different because the law says that you can’t consent to sex at this age.
Find out more about confidentiality, whatever your age, in Will they tell my parents?
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