We are going to dedicate the next six months to the issues involved with SEX. While sex is special and can be a very intimate and loving part of a relationship (with the right person at the right time in your life) it is also something that should not be treated lightly as there are many consequences that can result from engaging in sexual activity.

It is important for all teenage girls to educate themselves and be SMART about sexual choices. Everyday we are exposed to sexual images through the media but unfortunately the messages we receive are not always correct and it is easy to develop misconceptions about sexual issues. Our challenge to you is to be INTELLIGENT and know the issues before you are likely to encounter them.

Some interesting statistics (from www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au):

• About ½ teenage pregnancies occur within the first 6 months of becoming sexually active.
• Over one in four teenagers have experienced an unwanted sexual encounter.
• Most teenagers are not practising safe sex.
• Over ½ the young people who use the pill as contraception don't use condoms to protect from Sexually Transmitted Diseases.
• Some reasons for unwanted sexual encounters included being drunk, high on drugs, pressure from partner and pressure from friends.

Things to consider ...

1. Think about your core values and how you will maintain these values. What is important to you? How do you want to be perceived? What does a sexual relationship mean to you? In what context is a sexual relationship OK and when is it NOT OK?
2. Develop your own self-respect policy. What kind of guidelines will you establish for yourself so that you can enjoy the confidence that comes with having a healthy self-respect? (E.g. How will you decide who and when???)
3. Research current sexual issues including STDs and teen pregnancy.
4. Accept that others have different views.
5. Discuss the issues involved with sex with your parents or a trusted adult.
6. Visit your doctor and ask for information.
7. Find out about what kinds of contraception are available and what each one does.
8. Visit web-sites such as Kids Helpline and www.reachout.com.au.
9. Brainstorm with your friends about how to say "no" to unwanted sex.
10. Think about teen pregnancy and options such as parenting, adoption and abortion. How do you feel about each option? How can you avoid having to deal with an unwanted pregnancy?

What A Girl Needs will be exploring some of the most important issues surrounding SEX over the next few months to provide you with relevant and up-to-date information. Stay tuned!