You cannot catch an STI from sitting on a toilet seat. Sexually transmitted infections are passed on through unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex, and sharing sex toys. The only way to protect against STIs is to use a condom every time you have sex.
It is not harmful for a man – or woman – not to have sex. A man’s testicles will not explode if he does not have an orgasm. Men produce sperm all the time, and if they don’t ejaculate it is simply absorbed into their body.
Most people with chlamydia have no symptoms but it’s easily treated, so if you’re worried ask your GP or sexual health clinic for a test.
Chlamydia can make you infertile if left untreated, if you’re a woman. In men, chlamydia may lead to a painful infection in the testicles and can sometimes reduce fertility.
Having sex is a very personal decision, and you might not feel ready to have a sexual relationship for months or years after puberty. It is a personal choice.
Having breasts does not mean a girl is ready for sex. A girl’s breasts start to develop at puberty, around age 10 to 16, but this doesn’t mean she should start having sex, or that she will feel ready.
Having an abortion does not mean you’re unlikely to get pregnant again. You will also need to use reliable contraception to avoid becoming pregnant as fertility returns almost immediately after the abortion.
If something is troubling you, Samaritans are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. All chats are completely confidential. You can reach them on 08457 90 90 90 or jo@samaritans.org .
You can buy condoms if you’re under 16 from pharmacies and shops, as there is no law against it. You can get condoms free from sexual health, contraceptive or genito-urinary medicine (GUM) clinics and some GPs.
In the UK around 70% of boys and 75% of girls have sex for the first time when they are over 16. Only you can decide whether you’re ready to have sex, and it’s OK to say no.