Safe sex for teens and young adults

There is no 'right' age to start having sex. You and your partner need to be comfortable about your sexual activity. You both need to get and give consent before sex. Either of you can still change your mind at any stage.

The law about the legal age for consent is designed to protect young people from being taken advantage of.

Consent — Bodysafe Tiaki Tinanaexternal link

If you are under 16 and you have decided to have sex, you can see a healthcare provider or Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoa for advice. The person who sees you will talk to you about your decision and about ways to have safe sex. 

Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoaexternal link

If they are worried that you do not understand the decision you are making or that someone is pushing you into sex, they will talk to you about these concerns. To keep you safe, they may have to tell other people.

Part of enjoying a healthy sex life is looking after your sexual health. Sexual health covers:

• taking care of your sexual body parts and seeking help when necessary (for problems such as pain, soreness, rashes, discharge and itching)
• practising safe sex
• understanding contraception options (how to prevent a pregnancy)
• knowing how to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections
• feelings about sex, your sexuality and gender identity
• pregnancy tests, pregnancy care or discussing a request for an abortion (terminating a pregnancy)
• period problems.

Sexual health services

You can access free sexual health services by:

• contacting your healthcare provider
• booking an appointment with Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoa.

Find a clinic — Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoaexternal link

(Appointments at Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoa are free for New Zealand residents aged under 22 years.)

If you are thinking about starting a sexual relationship, it is important to think about contraception. Contraception is something that helps prevent pregnancy.

There are many different types of contraception available, including:

• long-acting contraception
• short-acting contraception
• emergency contraception
• permanent contraception.

Condoms are the only form of contraception that can provide protection against sexually transmitted infections.

Your healthcare provider will discuss contraceptive options with you and help you make a decision about which type might work best for you and your situation

Contraceptionexternal link

You can get contraception at any age. Even if you are younger than 16 your healthcare provider can advise you on your options. They will want to know that:

• you are in a safe relationship with a person around the same age
• you are happy with your choices
• you are not at risk of abuse, sexually transmitted infections or any other harm.

They will discuss your contraceptive options with you and can provide contraception without telling your parent or caregiver, if you do not want them to know. It is usually best to talk to your parents or someone you trust about your decision so they can help you with any worries or questions.