Sex

Whether you're having sex or just thinking about it, you've probably got a lot of questions. Am I ready for sex? Will it hurt? How do I talk to my partner about it? Do I share information about past sexual relationships?

Regardless of whether you choose to have sex or not have sex at all, the choice is entirely up to you. What’s important is that you’re consenting and that you’re practising healthy and safe sex with your partner/s. Read more on a range of topics – like questions to ask yourself before you have sex, ways to protect yourself and your partners, whether it’s normal to masturbate, and why it’s okay to not want sex at all.

Ask ReachOut

Have questions? Get anonymous, professionally backed answers to your questions, sourced from ReachOut articles and resources. Just Ask ReachOut.

Your how-to guide for safe sex

Feeling ready to have sex? Find out how to stay safe with this guide. From STIs to contraception, we can answer all your questions.

6 things you need to know about sexual consent

Sexual consent is when you and your sexual partner both agree to have sex. It's really important to be clear on this before things get too hot and heavy.

A young man lying on his bed holding his phone above his face and smiling.

Things to think about before sharing nudes

Check out our tips on what to think about before you share a nude, to keep things fun, flirty and safe for everyone.

boy and girl sleeping together with eyes closed

Preparing for your first time having sex

We’ve put together a list of some stuff to consider before, during and after sex.

How to get a sexual health check

The best way to do this is by having regular sexual health checks from your doctor or a sexual health nurse.

What is masturbation?

Learn about what masturbation is, who does it, why it’s healthy, and how to know if it’s becoming a problem.

How to talk to your partner about sexual health

Knowing how to talk about sexual health will help protect you and your sexual partners from sexually transmitted infections.

smiling young blonde woman standing with her girlfriend

Sharing your sexual history

Sharing your sexual history with your partner can benefit your current relationship if it’s done in the right way.

a young woman at a party with her hands in her lap

What to do if you realise a past experience was sexual assault

This article can help you work out if a past experience was sexual assault, how to come to terms with this realisation, and what steps you can take next.

What to do if someone leaks your nudes

If someone 'leaks' or shares your nudes without your consent, there are steps you can take to get the issue sorted and to feel better in the meantime.

Types of contraception and birth control

There are different types of contraception, and all methods have certain side effects and risks. Talk to your doctor about the method that’s best for you.

Culturally diverse sexual health services

Got questions about sexual health but you’re worried about cultural or language barriers? Find out about all the culturally diverse sexual health services available to you.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

A sexually transmitted infection (STI) is an infection you get from someone else during sexual activity.

Photo of a parent reassuringly patting their teen's shoulder.

How and when to tell someone you're pregnant

Telling a parent, guardian, grandparent or other ‘grown-up’ that you’re pregnant (or that you got someone pregnant) can be daunting if it wasn’t something you planned on.

Helpful information about abortions in Australia

If you have an unwanted or complicated pregnancy, it’s important that you talk to a reliable and unbiased source about the options that are available to you.

two young people walking down the street, one with a pride flag and the other with an ace flags wrapped around them like capes.

What is asexuality?

‘Asexuality’ describes someone who isn't sexually attracted to people of any gender. Asexuality covers a broad spectrum. Learn more about it here.

Frequently asked questions

Sexual health is all about feeling safe, informed, and respected in your body and with your choices. It includes things like understanding sexual consent, practising safe sex, looking after your emotional wellbeing, and having access to accurate information and sexual healthcare.

Good sexual health means being able to make decisions that are right for you, with confidence and support.

In Australia, the average age people first have sex is around 16 to 17, but can sometimes be younger or older. It’s important before you first have sex to feel emotionally and physically ready, and that any sexual experience is safe, consensual, and respectful. Learn more about having sex for the first time.

There are lots of youth-friendly services that can support your sexual health. These include:

doctors and sexual health clinics for things like STI testing, contraception, or questions about your body
family planning clinics in each state/territory, which are confidential and often low-cost or free
school counsellors or youth workers who can help connect you with the right services.

Culturally diverse sexual health services and LGBTQIA+ support services are also great places to get more specific information.

Yes, masturbation is a safe way to explore your body and learn what feels good. It doesn’t harm your body, and it can even help with stress, sleep, or understanding your own boundaries. As long as it's private and not interfering with your day-to-day life or relationships, it's completely healthy.

Absolutely. Everyone experiences sexuality differently, and there’s no rule that says you have to want or enjoy sex. Whether you’re asexual, just not interested right now, or unsure if you’re ready to have sex, your feelings are valid. It’s okay to take your time, set your own boundaries, and choose what’s right for you if and when you’re ready.

There are some great sexual health resources for young LGBTQIA+ people in Australia including QLife and Minus18. You can find more details in this list of LGBTQIA+ support services and this guide to culturally diverse LGBTQIA+ support services.

Sex