SEXUALITY

Sexuality has to do with our feelings, fantasies, gender, and thoughts. While we sometimes think of it as such, sexuality is not just the act of sexual intercourse. Young adults are at an awkward crossroad. They are no longer children, yet they are not adults. Their bodies and their needs are changing. Your sexuality develops during the teen years. There are many physical and emotional changes. Understanding the changes that you are going through makes it easier for you to deal with them.

Many teens fantasize, or daydream, about relationships and sex. It is normal to think about sexuality even if a teen is not having sex. Some look at erotic pictures and masturbate. Masturbation is a normal and safe way to release sexual feelings. It is also a safe way to learn about what gives your body pleasure.

Young adults often talk a lot about sex. It is all around in videos, on TV, in magazines and in the movies. Many teens talk about sex even though they have not had sex. Sometimes people lie and say they have had sex to seem cool or to be accepted by a group. In reality, about half of the young adults in a high school have never had sexual intercourse.

Sexuality is very complicated. It takes many years to become clear about what is right for you in regard to sex. However, if you have doubts about it, do not have sex. A healthy sexual relationship is respectful and safe. It involves connection, commitment, and love. Forcing someone to have sex is never okay. It is rape. Tricking someone into sex is not fair.

Dealing with changes and being faced with tough decisions is part of growing up. Remember, your best advice about sexual issues will come from your parents, clergy, or other trusted adults, not other teens. Ask your school nurse, healthcare provider, or librarian about books on sexuality for teens.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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