SEX. Many gURLs think about it, some may even be having it. An interest in sex is completely normal, and having a sexual relationship can be really special and even fun. However, having sex is a big deal and like other important things, it can have consequences. Close to 2,800 US teenagers become pregnant each day, which means 4 in 10 women will be pregnant at least once before their 20th birthday. And, that's just pregnancy. Don't forget about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Each year, 1 in 4 sexually active teenagers gets an STD.

So what can you do to make sure you stay healthy and safe? This gURL guide will help you answer that question. First, read the birth control chart to learn about the many different types of protection you can use while having sex. Then, find out where to get the protection you want and how to have those important talks with the people you love. Finally, the FAQs and glossary pages are great resources for your general questions and concerns.

Sex can be great--it's fun, it's special and it's natural. But it can be so much better when you are informed and confident in your choices. Read on gURLs, read on...! .

Click the links below to browse by topic. Or, you can click the "next" button to read page by page

birth control methods
where can I get contraception?
how to talk to your doctor
how to talk to your partner
how to talk to your parents
frequently asked questions
Glossary: A-M
Glossary: M-Z