Sometimes it seems as if everyone is talking about sex and this can put a lot of pressure on young people to start a sexual relationship. Although about 100,000 teenagers become pregnant each year, the reality is that most young people are not having sex and many wait until they are older before they have sex for the first time. Whether to have sex or not is a really important decision so think very carefully before you do. Don't feel pressurised into it - despite your mates boasting, few of them are actually doing it either. So don't have sex unless you absolutely sure that it is what YOU want to do.

• Be your own person and decide what you want to do
• It is easy to get carried away, particularly if you have taken drink or drugs. So be sure about just how far you want to go
• Think ahead and be prepared - things can happen when you are not expecting it.
• Make sure you have all the information you need such as contraceptive advice, you can get this from your doctor, family planning clinic or sexual health clinic
• It doesn't always have to be sex - there are other ways you and your partner can enjoy each other.
• Take control and make sure you use contraception.

What to do if you or a girlfriend is pregnant:
Whether you are pleased about the pregnancy or not, it is normal to feel anxious and worried about the future. You may be concerned about how you will manage, will your relationship survive and do you really want to be a parent? Have you told your family and how will they react? Do you want to have the baby or are you thinking about other options such as having a termination or having the baby adopted? There is a lot to think about at this time but do not panic.

It is important that you take some time and decide what you want to do. Remember you are not on your own and that there is lots of help and support available.

• Tell someone you trust
• Talk to your partner and discuss what you both want to do
• Get medical advice as quickly as possible
• Contact one of the helping agencies in your area for help and information

Sexuality:

Not everyone is heterosexual (attracted to people of the opposite sex). Some prefer their own sex and some people fancy both men and women. Perhaps you are confused about your sexual orientation or you know that you are gay and are worried about telling everyone. This is normal so don't get stressed. There are lots of places where you can get help and information and its important that you find the right support for yourself.

• Tell someone you trust
• Contact one of the local support groups for support
• Remember you are not on your own and it will work out

For Help and Advice Contact:

Family Planning Association
Phone 028 9032 5488 or visit www.fpa.org.uk

H.Y.P.E.
A youth advice service on sexual health.
Phone 028 9024 3143

Belfast Brook Advisory Clinic
Phone 028 9032 8866 or visit www.brook.org.uk

Opportunity Youth
Phone 028 9043 5810 or visit www.opportunity-youth.org

Opportunity Youth Derry
Phone 027 7137 1162

HIV Support Centre helpline
Phone 0800 137437 or visit www.aidshelpline.org.uk

The Rainbow Project
Support and counselling for young gay men.
Phone 028 9031 9030 or visit www.rainbow-project.com

GLYNI (gay & lesbian youth N.Ireland)
Informal support and peer groups specifically for young people.
Phone 028 9027 8636

Cara Friend
Gay information and befriending.
Phone 028 9027 8636

Men's line:
Phone 028 9032 2023

Lesbian line:
Phone 028 9023 8668

FPA - "Bout Ye" project
Young men's sexual health
Custom House
Derry
Phone 028 7126 0016

Well Woman Centre
17 Queen Street
Derry BT48 7EQ
Phone 028 7136 0777

FPA Helpline
Phone 0845 310 1334 from 9am to 6pm Mon - Fri

advice for young people on pregnancy, sex and sexuality in belfast