Losing your virginity is one of the important rites when making the move into adulthood. There are good reasons for taking your time and not rushing this experience, which is one most people remember for the rest of their lives. It is also an act with consequences.
Trust Your Feelings
There are no hard and fast rules about when it is right to have sex for the first time. The law states that it is legal for you to consent to sex once you have turned 16. Below 16 you can still have sex, but no one should be pressuring you to do so. Below the age of 13, young people are not considered to be mature enough to make that decision, and it is not considered lawful to have sex with them. You always have the right to say no, and any prospective partners should respect this. For information on factors influencing the age young people lose their virginity, see this report from The Guardian.
It is a good idea to have that first sexual experience with someone you trust. Even it is uncomfortable, it is beneficial to talk about issues such as whether both parties feel ready, whether anyone feels affected by peer pressure and whether contraception is organised.
Practical Considerations
Any penetrative vaginal sex between males and females, no matter how clumsy, can result in pregnancy. Young people must ensure they use contraception – ideally condoms, which also protect against disease, STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections) and HIV. Free condoms are available from clinics for young people, some doctors and community contraceptive organisations.
Unprotected sex can cause a great deal of anxiety. If you want to test for infections and monitor your sexual health in the privacy of your own home and want to know more about home STI kits in London, then it would be a good idea to consult with professionals in this area such as Greenwich Sexual Health. Experienced staff at a reputable company should be able to help with queries, advice and learning more about home STI kits in London.
The sex itself may not take long, but the effects of a negative experience can stay with you for many years. Make sure you are prepared emotionally and physically for this step, which can be wonderful.