Don't know what a word means?
Click on the letters below to find out more.
-
Hand Job
When someone uses their hand to stimulate someone's penis, usually up and down. This is a pleasurable act which someone may orgasm from, or enjoy by themselves.
-
Herpes
A virus that can lead to sores on the face or genitals. It can be passed on through sexual activities, or other close contact. There is no known cure for Herpes and you will always carry the virus, but it can be treated. See our STI page for more information.
-
Heterosexual
A person who fancies members of the opposite sex.
-
HIV
Short for Human Immunodeficiency Virus, HIV can be sexually transmitted and is the virus that damages the immune system and can lead to AIDS. Find out more in our STI page. There are several forms of protection from HIV: wearing a condom, PrEP , U=U and getting tested regularly. AIDS is a serious health condition where your body can't fight off infections well. Not everyone with HIV gets AIDS, and with the right treatment, people can stay healthy.
-
Homosexual
Someone who is sexually attracted to members of their own sex.
-
Hormones
Naturally occurring chemicals that guide the changes that take place in the body. Hormones can cause physical changes and emotional changes. Hormones cause puberty to start in every body.
-
Horny
Feeling sexually excited and/or in the mood to have sex.
-
HPV (Human Papilloma Virus)
A virus found in women that can contribute to cell changes in the cervix . An HPV vaccine is available through the NHS in school to prevent cervical and other cancers. See our HPV Vaccine page to find out more.
-
Hymen
A thin layer of skin that may in part cover the entrance to the vagina during puberty. This can be broken naturally, via sport or by tampons or penetrative sex.
Click a button below to find a list of local services in your area if you need help or advice.
Are you ready to have sex?
It can be difficult to decide whether it's the right time for you to have sex. You should know that whatever anyone else might say, the decision to have sex for the first time or anytime is YOURS. It might feel ok to do it or it might not feel ok. You need to trust your instincts and do what is right for you.
Possible pages that this section could link to
Be clear on consent
It is important that sex is always consensual. This means being conscious enough and safe/comfortable enough to say yes to any type of sexual contact, whether that's talking about sex, touching, or taking part in sexual acts. It's about both parties feeling actively excited and comfortable in a sexual situation. Remember you can change your mind at any point, whether that means saying "no" or stopping any kind of activity.
Possible pages that this section could link to
Contraception choices
If you are thinking about having sex and you don‘t want to become pregnant then you need to use a method of contraception. Most methods of contraception will not protect you from sexually transmitted infections so whatever method you choose you also need to think about protection (avoiding getting a sexually transmitted infection). For this you'll need to use condoms.
Possible pages that this section could link to
Do you need more help or advice?
If you still have unanswered questions, you can go to a service in your area for information & advice: