Am I Ready to Have Sex?
Am I ready to have sex? It’s a question that crosses everyone’s mind at one point or another, and it’s a big decision, so it’s perfectly acceptable (and healthy!) to take time to really think this through before making the decision.
Having sex is a big deal, and there are lots of potential consequences that come with being sexually active. It’s important to know that just because you’ve done it once doesn’t mean you’re obligated to continue doing it. It’s also important to evaluate your personal boundaries and to communicate them to your partner.
You deserve to have your boundaries respected.
Here are a few questions to ask yourself when determining if you’re ready to take things to the next level:
Am I being pressured to have sex?
Sex is not something to do for someone else. You have the right to say no. You have the right to change your mind at any time. And you have the right to have your boundaries respected.
It’s easy to feel like you’re the only one not having sex, but statistics show that a large number of young adults are not having sex at all [1], so rest assured that you’re not alone if you decide to wait.
Is this in line with my values?
Try to step back from the situation, and evaluate how you feel about sex as a whole: do you think it should take place in casual relationships or only in committed relationship? Should it only take place when you’re in love? Should it only take place when you’re married?
Are my partner and I prepared to discuss – and accept – the possible consequences of sex?
Being sexually active comes with possible consequences that can affect your physical and emotional wellbeing. It’s important to talk openly with your partner before having sex about your expectations of one another, what you’re comfortable with, and how you’ll deal with potential outcomes such as an unplanned pregnancy or a sexually transmitted disease.
Do I know my partner’s sexual history? Have we both been tested for STI/STDs?
Your health and safety should be top priority, and that means making sure you and your partner have both been open and honest about your sexual history and have been tested recently for STI/STDs. Many STI/STDs have no symptoms, so it’s very important to be tested regularly if you are sexually active.
Talk It Over
Like all of life’s big decisions, it’s a good idea to talk it out with a trusted adult.At PLL, we offer confidential STI/STD testing and treatment for chlamydia and gonorrhea at no cost. If you’d like to come in (with or without your partner) to get tested, reach out today. Our caring, professional staff is happy to help answer all of your questions as you navigate this big decision.
What Should I Do First if I’m Pregnant?
The most important first step is to confirm the pregnancy. At-home pregnancy tests have come a long way, but they’re still not flawless. A free, medical-grade test at PLL can help you have some peace of mind knowing your results are accurate. Knowing these facts early can help you make an informed decision.
You can also get tested for some common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) while you’re here. This is an important step no matter what you decide to do long-term. We offer free treatment for these STIs, too. (Some STIs have no symptoms, so it’s possible to have an STI and not even know it! [3])
Perhaps the most important thing to note is that you’re not alone as you face these results. We have knowledgeable, compassionate staff who will talk with you through the results and your options in a calm, safe environment. We offer mentorship and education through this entire journey, so you don’t have to face any part of it alone.
An appointment at PLL does not lock you into any decision. It simply gives you accurate information. (You can schedule a free appointment from our website.)
What Are My Pregnancy Options in Missouri?
Abortion laws in Missouri have changed recently, but regardless of the legal landscape, you have options, and we are here to help you navigate them. You can read more about parenting, adoption, and abortion on our website, but we are happy to talk through all of these options with you at a free, confidential appointment.
How Can Free, Local Support Help Me Right Now?
Women facing an unexpected pregnancy in the Ozarks often need more than medical facts. They need practical and emotional support as they face big decisions. Common free or low-cost resources at PLL include:
- Free pregnancy testing
- Free STI testing and treatment for some common STIs
- Mentoring and one-on-one support
- Pregnancy and parenting education
- Referrals for community resources (food, housing assistance, maternity clothes, baby items)
- Information about adoption
- Guidance on navigating local programs such as WIC or other Missouri support services
PLL also offers continued mentoring after the initial visit so you have ongoing encouragement whether you choose parenting or another path. These services are designed for women who feel scared, unsure, or alone.
What If I’m Considering Abortion?
If abortion is on your mind, accurate information matters. Before taking any step, confirming a viable pregnancy and gestational age is medically important. The free testing and ultrasound offered at PLL will help establish those facts.
At PLL, you’ll receive clear, factual explanations of different abortion methods, typical timelines, and known risks. We’ll also discuss alternative options and the resources and support available to you. This conversation happens at your pace. You are never required to decide on the spot.
How Do I Get Started?
You can schedule a free, confidential appointment for pregnancy testing, STI testing, and options counseling. We make the process simple: call, text, or schedule an appointment online. Appointments are usually available quickly, and everything remains private.
Bring any questions you have. Common ones include:
- How accurate is a free pregnancy test?
- What happens during an ultrasound?
- What local resources exist for single moms or adoption?
- How does mentoring work?
This is a safe, judgment-free space.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is everything really free and confidential?
Yes. Pregnancy testing, STI testing (and treatment), mentoring, education, and basic resource referrals are free at PLL Women’s Resource Center in Branson West. Conversations stay private.
Will anyone pressure me?
Please be aware that PLL does not provide or refer for abortion services.
Sources:
1. The Statement 2021 Sex Survey. The Michigan Daily. (2021, December 8). https://www.michigandaily.com/statement/the-statement-2021-sex-survey/