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∙ Sexual Feelings Sexual Feelings (back to top) Sexual feelings are natural and normal. Learning to handle our sexuality in a responsible way is part of growing up. Decide for yourself what your limits are before the situation arises. Don’t let someone force you to do things you don’t want to do. A couple should talk honestly about their feelings and what is right for each of them. If you don’t agree, find someone else who thinks like you do. How to Say No to Sex (back to top) What do you do if someone you care about wants to have sex and you do not know how to say NO without breaking up the relationship? It is hard to say NO to someone you really like, but if someone really cares for you, they will listen to you. Here are four steps to help you say NO:
It is harder to say NO if you are using alcohol, marijuana or other drugs because the drugs affect the way you think, feel, and act. Remember, it is your body! There are risks to sexual activity, like becoming pregnant, emotional or social problems, contracting AIDS or other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). When you have sex with someone, it is like having sex with everybody that person has been with. Consider the Risks (back to top) Before you make a decision, get the facts and sort out your feelings. Think before you act because if you have sex, even once, it can result in a pregnancy, sexually transmitted disease (STD), emotional and social problems. That would put your future on hold. Even the best birth control does not always work. Are you ready to accept the responsibility of an unplanned child? Are you willing to risk contracting a STD? Are you prepared to handle social isolation? Are you emotionally prepared to accept any or all of the risks? Unplanned Pregnancy (back to top) Males and females alike have responsibilities in sexual relationships. These include responsible decision making, respecting the limits set by a partner, and properly using protection with all sexual partners. It is uncomfortable to think about, but more uncomfortable to become a parent before you are ready. As a parent you are responsible to support and care for your child. Are you prepared to handle the emotional and financial strain of an unplanned pregnancy? Before you have sex, consider all the risks! The only sure way to avoid pregnancy, AIDS, STDs, emotional and social problems is by not having sex. Talk to someone who is responsible and mature. Caring House Think You Are Pregnant? (back to top) If you think you may be pregnant, you may wonder where to turn at this difficult time. Your parents can be helpful and may be able to offer good advice and support. Or, you may have another responsible and caring adult to
whom you may turn. There are agencies that can help
and give guidance. They have trained people who
understand your feelings and needs. Don’t put off finding
help!! It is important to get a pregnancy test as soon as
possible, to talk about your situation with someone you
trust, and to get medical attention right away!!! Pregnancy Counseling (back to top) The following agencies offer counseling and will help you get medical care. If you need a place to live, many will place you with a family who can share their home with you. Adoption services are also available. Adoption Advantage, Inc. Are You Hiding Your Baby? (back to top) Don’t panic – you are not alone. There is a Safe Place for Newborns. You may leave your unharmed baby, up to 7 days old, with an employee at any licensed medical facility in Georgia without fear of legal prosecution of abandonment. The mother must give the medical facility proof of her identity and address, if available. Your baby will be given needed medical attention and placed in foster care for adoption. Newborn Lifeline Network 1-877-440-2229. Teen Parenting (back to top) Being a parent is one of life’s longest, toughest, and most important jobs. While giving love to your baby is important, your child’s physical, mental, and emotional needs for proper growth and development are equally important. Many places offer practice sessions in infant care and safety or important parenting and childcare information. Call the following agencies for more information on parenting: |
SEXUALITY & SEXUAL HEALTH
