When to start having sex?

Sometimes it seems like everyone is having sex, and if you haven't done it yet, there can be pressure from all sides - from friends, TV, adverts, music and elsewhere. The pressure can seem even more intense if you're in a relationship, but if you don't feel ready yet, don't let anyone push you into having sex for the wrong reasons.

Someone might try to put pressure on you by saying:

• They love you. If you feel the same, you'll want to do it too.
• You're both mature enough.
• It's a sign that you're committed.

You might think:

• I'll lose them if I don't.
• Everybody does it; maybe I should.
• I want to but in my own time.
• I don't want to; but how do I say so?

But remember, it's your body, your choice and your right to say no.

ONLY HAVE SEX BECAUSE YOU WANT TO

Even if you feel you're ready for sex, remember that your partner may not be. Imagine how they feel if you keep pressurising them about it. Be fair to yourself and your partner and only have sex if you both want to.

For more information about deciding whether to have sex and other sexual health matters for young people, call free on 0800 567 123.

The age of consent

The legal age of consent for sex between a man and a woman in England, Scotland and Wales is 16. In Northern Ireland, it's 17.

The legal age of consent for anal sex between a man and a woman in England and Wales is 18. In Scotland, it's 16. In Northern Ireland, it's illegal.

The legal age of consent for anal sex between two men in the UK is 16.

There is no specific law on the age of consent for sex between two women. However, certain laws suggest that both women must consent and be over 16, except in Northern Ireland where they must be over 17.

For more information on sexual health (including HIV), call the Sexual Health Line free (from the UK) on 0800 567 123, textphone (for people with hearing impairments) 0800 521 361 or phone your local NHS sexual health clinic.