Lesson 1
The healthiest choice
We’re here to promote healthy choices, and waiting for sex until you’ve found the right person is by far the healthiest choice. It’s a choice you can make at any point, even if you’ve had sex before.
Module 05 · Relationships
Waiting & the right person
Why waiting for the right person is the healthiest choice, for your body and your heart.
Lesson 2
What waiting gives you
Your physical healthThe only sure way
Waiting is the only way that’s 100% sure to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Fewer partners over a lifetime also lowers your chances of an STI, including HPV, which can lead to some cancers.
Your emotional healthNo pressure, no worry
Time to grow into who you are and what you want, without worrying about a pregnancy or an STI, and without being pushed into something before you’re ready.
Your future relationshipTrust first
A relationship that starts with friendship, honesty and respect, with someone who shares your values and is glad to wait with you.
Lesson 3
Saying no, and meaning it
- “No” and “not yet” are complete answers. You don’t owe anyone an explanation.
- Decide before the moment comes. It’s easier to keep a decision you made with a clear head.
- Have an exit line ready, like “I’m not into that” or “I have to get home.”
- Talk early with someone you’re dating about waiting, before things get physical.
Check yourself
Myth or fact?
Waiting is the only way that’s 100% sure to prevent pregnancy and STIs.
Fact. No birth control method is perfect, and most do nothing to prevent STIs. Waiting is the only sure way.
If you’ve had sex before, it’s too late to choose to wait.
Myth. You can choose to wait at any point, whatever has happened before.
Someone who really cares about you will pressure you until you’re ready.
Myth. Pressure is a warning sign. The right person respects your timeline.
Questions people ask
Asked and answered.
What if the person I’m dating doesn’t want to wait?
Someone who respects you respects your timeline. If they push, guilt you or threaten to leave, that tells you something important about the relationship. See Healthy relationships & consent.
How do I bring up waiting?
Early, and plainly: “I’ve decided to wait, and I want to be with someone who’s OK with that.” How they respond is part of how you find the right person.
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