Sexual health and relationships - At 16 you can legally have sex. There can be a lot of pressure to be in a relationship or to have sex, however, despite what they claim, the majority of young people don't have sex until they're over 16, and most people who have had sex before 16 regret it. You're the one in charge of your sexual health and well being and, for all the potential pleasures of sex, there can also be painful repercussions, like unwanted pregnancy or a sexually transmitted infection (STI). If you're already sexually active, make sure you're playing it safe. If not, don't do anything until you feel ready. Your sex life is up to you, but so you can make responsible choices, here's some information.

You can get free confidential advice about contraception, sexual health and relationships whatever your age, even if you're under 16. This means that services will not tell your parents or anyone else without your permission, unless you or someone else is at risk of harm. If you are having sex, use contraception and condoms to protect against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Contraception

You can get free contraception from a doctor, nurse or local family planning/young people's clinic. There are lots of different types of contraception. Some you have to take everyday, whilst others can last for three to five years, for example implants. For more information about methods available or the services in North Yorkshire visit www.yorsexualhealth.org.uk. With so many different contraceptive methods out there, how do you make sure you choose the best one for you? Brook have designed a contraceptive tool that will help you work out what's most important to you when it comes to making decisions about contraception by asking some simple questions. Click here to have a go!

These are some of your options:

Condoms
There are lots of different types of contraception

Latex sheaths that fit over the penis to stop sperm getting anywhere near an egg. 98% effective (if you read the instructions). You should always use a condom to help protect against STIs. Condoms are free from family planning services, young people's clinics, some GPs, some youth workers and integrated youth support hubs.

Contraceptive pill

Stops the ovaries producing an egg. Over 99% effective if taken properly but won't protect you from STIs.

There are also implants, diaphragms, patches and intrauterine devices (IUDs). Go to your local family planning clinic to find out what method is best for you.

Emergency contraception

If you've had sex without contraception or your contraception failed, you can take emergency contraception up to three days (72 hours) after sex, and in some cases up to 120 hours. The sooner you take it the better. You can get emergency contraception free from a doctor, nurse, family planning/young people's clinic, minor injuries unit, A&E department and some pharmacists.

There are over 70 pharmacies across North Yorkshire and York which can dispense emergency oral contraception, also known as "the morning after pill", free of charge to age 14 to 24, and without a prescription. To find out where your nearest one might be, go to the 'participating pharmacies' download. 

If you just want to have a chat about contraception and get some advice, you can call the following helpline number free on 0800 28 29 30 or visit www.yorsexualhealth.org.uk to find out about services in your area.

Sex myths

You can't get pregnant if the guy pulls out before he cums

Sperm can still be present in pre-cum, the clear sticky drops that are released when he's turned on. It only takes one drop of sperm to get pregnant.

You can't get pregnant during your period

You can because sperm can live in a woman's body for up to seven days. Don't take any chances.

You can't get pregnant while having sex standing up, in the bath or shower, or when you first have sex

If you have unprotected sex you can get pregnant, even on your first time.

Sexuality

One in ten people in the world are attracted to people of the same or both sexes, so no need to feel different or ashamed about your feelings for people of the same sex. If you're not sure about whether you're straight (fancy the opposite sex), gay (guys fancying other guys), lesbian (girls fancying girls) or bi-sexual (fancying both sexes), then give yourself time to grow into your sexuality. 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

There are 25 STIs out there, four of which are untreatable. One in nine people have had an infection at some point. You should get checked at the first sign of any symptoms, and as a precaution, after unprotected sex. Some STIs have no symptoms so you may look and feel ok. Some, like chlamydia, can make you infertile. You don't even need to have sex to catch an STI, some can be passed through close sexual contact including oral sex.

Common STI symptoms:

• unusual discharge from the vagina;
• discharge from the penis;
• sores or blisters on or near the genitals;
• rash or irritation on or around the genitals;
• a burning feeling when peeing; and
• pain during sex.

Got symptoms? Get checked now.

Pregnancy

If you think you could be pregnant, don't panic. You can have a free test at:

• a family planning clinic;
• a young people's clinic;
• a sexual health clinic; and
• some doctors.

You can buy a pregnancy testing kit from pharmacists or supermarkets. If you are pregnant, then you need to get medical advice as soon as possible. There are many organisations who can support you, too.

Help and information

Services in North Yorkshire

• There are lots of services in North Yorkshire where you can get free and confidential advice and contraception
• To find up to date contact details and opening times or services in North Yorkshire click here. For all your questions answered or for free confidential advice for under 18's call 0800 28 29 30 or visit the NHS website.
• For Chlamydia testing kits, Yorscreen now run a County wide service, contact 01904 725440 or check out www.yorsexualhealth.org.uk  for information and testing kits.  Check out their great Facebook page www.facebook.com/pieceofp.ss
• Text sexual health queries the name of your town plus your query to 07717 677352. You will receive a reply by the next working day.