Relationships
As we develop in to our teens, our bodies physically begin to change as we begin puberty. We also begin to change emotionally as we grow in to young adults. Relationships and how we deal with them and interact with different people become increasingly important to us.

Boyfriend/girlfriend relationships can be exciting and a natural part of growing up and exploring our feelings, emotions and preferences. Sex can be a healthy part of a good relationship, but you don't need to have sex with someone to have a good relationship with them. Most young people in the UK wait until after they are 16 years old (the legal age of consent) to have sex.

There are also risks and consequences of having sex and you need to consider these carefully before starting a sexual relationship, for example;
How would you feel if you or your girlfriend became pregnant?
How do you reduce the risk of getting a Sexually Transmitted Infection?
What would happen if your parents / carers / peers find out?
Are you breaking the law and what happens if you are found out?

It's Your Choice is able to help discuss all these things with you in confidence so that you can make an informed choice about your relationships.

Checklist before entering a sexual relationship:
* You've made a special connection with someone and you both feel it

* You've been going out for months and trust each other

* You've both agreed your in love and want to take this next step together

* Nobody's forcing you, pushing you, or making you do something your unsure about

* You both want it for yourself - not just because the other person does or to try and please them

* You feel you could say no and that would be ok - but you still want to

* You aren't wanting sex just to be popular or keep a girlfriend/ boyfriend

* You may feel a bit anxious about it  - but not any fear

* You feel able to speak to your parents or carers about it

* You and your boyfriend/girlfriend have talked about it and discussed the risks and consequences of having sex

* You and your boyfriend/girlfriend have considered different types of contraception and are confident you know how to use it.

You're probably ready when you and your partner can answer truthfully YES to at least