Saying NO to sex is very hard if you really like your boyfriend or girlfriend. But being pressured to have sex if you’re not ready takes all the fun out of your relationship. If you don’t want to lose your partner and don’t want to go any further, try these tips. If he or she is right for you, they’ll be willing to wait until the time is right.

Try these tips:

1. Tell your partner “NO” is the best form of birth control and the only SURE way of avoiding unplanned pregnancy and diseases such as HIV/AIDS or other STD’s.

2. Don’t wait until you’ve gone too far. Once you’re hot and heavy, it’s tough to stop. Tell your partner before you get the windows steamed up and decide beforehand how far you’re willing to go.

3. Make sure that your partner knows how you feel and you don’t want to lose him or her. You could say “I think you’re great, but I’m just not ready for sex yet” or “I’d like to get to know you better before we go any further”.

4. Explain your reasons for waiting. Know what you want. Be clear with yourself so you can be clear with your partner. Are you really ready to deal with worrying about birth control? What would your parents do if they found out? Maybe you’d like to wait until you’re married.

5. If your partner is putting pressure on you to have sex, it may be time to call it quits. Someone who loves you enough will be willing to wait until you’re ready. If your partner can’t wait til you’re ready, maybe it’s time for you to find someone else who cares about YOU more than about sex. You deserve someone who won’t pressure you.

6. Be proud of yourself for being able to say no. You’re mature enough to know what you want and don’t want. Remember, it’s your body!!

Sex can wait!

For help contact 
 the Teen Health Centre at (519) 253-8481
 and ask to speak to a counsellor