Being Sexually Active Sexual Health Grade 8

What is Sexual Activity? Sexual Activity is having vaginal or anal intercourse or engaging in oral sex. It also includes any activity that involves skin-to-skin contact in the genital area. Any of these activities increase one’s risk of pregnancy and STIs, and may result in emotional consequences.

Questions…. What are the responsibilities associated with being sexually active? What are the physical or health consequences of early sexual activity? What are the emotional consequences? What can be done to decrease the consequences? Groups of 3 or 4

Responsibilities Knowing the risks Using birth control Setting personal limits, communicating these limits to your partner Respecting limits Knowing the risks – Protection against STI/HIV, and getting tested

Physical Consequences Increased probability of pregnancy Increased probability of STIs and associated complications (infertility) Increased probability of HIV

Emotional Consequences Damaged reputation Guilt Damaged/Changed Relationship Inability to feel emotionally close to the other person Worry about pregnancy & STIs Feeling pressured & resentful Regret Reduced self-esteem & changed body image