Is thirteen too young?

[punkishjerk]

Is thirteen too young for anything sexual? My friends are doing it and I want to, but the media makes it seem bad. I am just curious, I am pan but prefer girls so I know I don't have to worry about that and I already know I am clean. So other than pregnancy and STDs is there any other problem with it?

[Eddie C]

Hello there, punkishjerk. Welcome to Scarleteen.

Every person is different and develops at their own pace. There's no such thing as "the right" age to start being sexually active as there's no age when you should already be. Readiness is something very personal and will vary from one to another.

What matter most is to educate yourself as much as you can and to only do the things that you feel comfortable doing. Sex is something that should make you feel good and for that safety is a must, emotionally too. Learning about how to set boundaries and limits, consent, and respect for others is also very important.

I am going to leave the next links that talk about this subject. I hope you find it helpful.

http://www.scarleteen.com/article/advic ... _stocklist

http://www.scarleteen.com/article/relat ... _checklist

http://www.scarleteen.com/blog/heather_ ... f_you_cant

[BookBelle]

Hello punkishjerk,

I agree with Edith. We live in a society that either condemns sexual activity or glorifies it. It is not for anyone else to say when is the "right time" for you to start being sexually active. We are all different! Be sure that you are emotionally ready, that you're comfortable, that your partner is comfortable. Being here, asking questions is a great place to start.