Sex: How Soon Is Too Soon?

A lot of relationship advice recommends waiting to have sex with someone new, particularly if you're interested in a long-term relationship. This can be tough when you're in the throes of a new attraction, or if the other person is eager to get you between the sheets. Waiting has a couple of advantages. First, if the new person is just out for casual sex, he or she may fade away rather than wait you out. Disappointing though this may be, it's easier to bid farewell to a casual date than someone with whom you've experienced deep pleasure and connection. Another advantage is more time to build an emotional connection. By all means appreciate your date's positive qualities, but also be alert for small signs that could mean this isn't the right person for you. Talk about what you want before you have sex. If you're interested in a lasting relationship, don't give signals that say you're only looking for a physical arrangement. No matter when you decide to have sex, keep yourselves safe. If you're not mature enough to take precautions against disease and unwanted pregnancy, you're not mature enough to be having sex.