Don’t believe the hype
Sometimes when you look at magazines (and telly, films and adverts for that matter), it can seem like there’s always a ‘perfect’ woman looking back at you. It can be difficult feeling confident about yourself and your relationships when you’re faced with images of slim, sexy, gorgeous girls – who always seem to have equally gorgeous fans or guys on hand to admire them. But none of this is reality.
It’s also not true that all girls need to dress or act in a certain way. Some girls really enjoy make-up and dressing up. Some enjoy sports, some cooking, some like reading and some like going out dancing. There is no ‘right way’ to be a girl.
Keeping it real!
Real life is about real people – and we come in all different shapes and sizes, and we like different things. And we all deserve to feel good – you included! Real life is also about learning to enjoy and respect people – even when they are different from us, or like different things. See relationships, respect and feeling confident for lots of advice on feeling good about yourself and your relationships.
Is everybody doing it?
In Scotland, most girls don’t start having sex until they’re 16 or older.
Sometimes it can seem that there is lots of talk about having sex and you might feel that everyone is doing it – but they’re not. In Scotland, most girls don’t start having sex until they’re 16 or older. The reality is that many girls who have sex before they’re ready regret it afterwards, so it’s worth sticking by your own feelings. If you’re thinking about having sex, see ‘Am I ready for sex?’ for more information – the ‘right time’ to be having sex is when you feel ready and have all the information you need to stay safe.
What do you want?
It can be tough for girls at times. There can be a lot of pressure, even from your mates, to behave a certain way, to get yourself a boyfriend, or even to lose your virginity. It can be hard making choices that are actually your own. But it can help to talk to someone about sex, sexual health and relationships. Healthy Respect drop-ins can offer you free, confidential advice about any health issue, but particularly sexual health, whether you’re having sex or not.
Need more information?
Whether you’re in a relationship or not, you might be thinking about safer sex. Maybe you need some info about condoms, other contraception, pregnancy, or it might just be that you’re feeling anxious about something. See our address book for drop-ins and other organisations that can help.
What does puberty mean for girls?
Safer sex?
What about drink, drugs and sex?
Types of sex