Knowing about contraception and sexual health is very important, but just as important is knowing that you're ready to have sex.

This can be difficult. You might feel pressured, or like you're being left behind. But it's OK to take your time and be sure.

You won’t be ready for sex till you can tick all these boxes, but even if you can, you still might not be – only you can know for sure:

You feel you could say no if you wanted to

You can have fun together without anything sexual involved

You each want it for yourself, not to please the other person or fit in with what friends or other people think you should do

Nobody’s forcing you, pressuring you or making you

You have discussed using condoms and contraception, and talked about what might happen if you become pregnant or get a Sexually Transmitted Infection

You have agreed what happens next, and whether or not to tell your friends afterwards.

Also remember that just because you’ve said yes to sex once, you can always say no the next time.

Find out more about Sex.

FACT: If you're under 16, it's illegal to have sex, but you can still get advice about contraception and sexual health (and you should).