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4 Ways To Say No Or Not Yet

Think all your friends are having sex - don't believe everything that you hear.

It’s OK to say NO to sex. Only have sex if you want to. The choice to have or not have sex is yours. Saying 'No' can be difficult but it's important that you’re honest with yourself and how you’re feeling.

These 4 lines might help:

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1. I don't think we know each other well enough yet
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There is nothing wrong with getting to know each other before you decide to have sex.

If you know each other well, then you are more likely to be comfortable and relaxed.

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2. I want to wait to make sure it’s special
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Talk about how you can make it special. Where do you want to be and how do you want it to happen?

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3. We can show how much we care about each other in other ways
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There are lots of ways that you can show that you care about someone.

Talk about the things that you like to do together like cuddling up and watching films together or enjoying days out with each other.

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4. There's plenty of time
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You might think that everyone is having sex, but lots of them aren’t. The average age for having sex for the first time is 17.

There is no rush and you should feel ready.  Talk to your partner about how you feel.

how to get help

If you have any more questions on this area or would like to speak to somebody about this topic, have a look at the links or search for your local services in the blue box below. Alternatively you can always contact your school nurse.

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REMEMBER, if you’ve had sex before that doesn’t mean that anybody should expect you to have sex again.

Only have sex when you’re ready.

Find help in your local area

Find help in your local area

Find out what services are available to you in your area. Remember your school nurse is always there to give you confidential help and support.