The horny state of mind may not be the best time to take this decision. So, before you get ‘in the heat of the moment’, think about the risks and responsibilities of a sexually-active life, says Ruchira Bose

Physically, if you’re over 14, you’re ready. But don’t let your mother read this! First, you have to drill into your head that no matter what Sushma Swaraj or Vandana Shiva or Gloria Steinem say, it is your body and therefore, your decision.

Often women are given the message that waiting to become sexually involved with a lover is a sign of your virtue. Sexuality is a natural and healthy part of being human, and expressing that part of yourself is perfectly okay if you are an adult (read above 18).

Your sexuality belongs to you; you have the right and responsibility to choose when, how and whether to express it as an informed adult, when you are ready to do so. If you feel unsure, then your mind, heart and/or body is giving you a signal to slow down or take the first exit off this highway. Follow your instincts. Meanwhile, enjoy the evolving friendship and feel all of your feelings. Don't rush and don’t pressure yourself. Be you!

At A Glance
• Know yourself — Does the situation ‘feel right’? Do you really trust those feelings?
• Know your would-be partner — How well do you know the person you are thinking of being with? Do you care for him and trust him?
• Know your reasons — Whatever your reason, be sure about it.
• Know the risks — Heart break, regret, pregnancy, STDs and HIV (AIDS) can all happen the first time you have sex.
• Know how to protect yourself — Condoms with spermicide are the best protection for sexually-active women. The Pill only protects against pregnancy.
• You CANNOT get pregnant through oral or anal sex, but you can get STDs.
• Sex is not bad, dirty or wrong,