Talking to your parents about sex and relationships

Is that the last thing you can imagine doing, or have you been talking about sex and sexuality since you were a kid?

If you think you’re ready to have sex and want to talk to them here’s some ideas:

• Tell one or both that you want to have a chat
• Talk about how you feel about your partner and relationship and that you’re ready for the next step
• Tell them why you think you’re ready.  If you’re not sure of your reasons then maybe you aren’t ready
• Show them you’ve done your homework and you’ve thought about keeping yourself and your partner safe from infections and pregnancy
• Be calm and listen to their points of view.  It’s hard for parents to hear their child is making that step.  They might react negatively. Most parents have their children’s best interests at heart and they will want you to be safe, happy, and not get hurt – emotionally or physically
• It’s always better that your parents hear it from you than someone else
• Listen to your parents.  They do have more experience of life and relationships.  If they can’t stand your partner they may have a point
• Listen to yourself.  Do you sound like you’re really ready, or do you need to take another look at your decision?