Dear Panel,

I'm 16 and I need some advice.

I've been together with Brett for a little over a year and we've been through quite a lot, and we constantly tell each other how happy we are and how much we love and care for each other.

Anyway, my problem – actually – my question:

I am a virgin. He isn't. I know its a major thing to have sex, and I know you have to be ready and have to be very responsible when you make a decision to go through with it.

Losing your virginity is such a huge thing and I'm just afraid of so much – I'm afraid I'll regret it and I'm afraid things will change afterwards (for the worse). I also don't want people to think bad of me if I go through with it.

And for your information, I'm not being pressured into it. Brett says he doesn't mind if I don't ever go through with it, that he'll still think of me the same and love me.

So here's my point:

I want advice about losing it. Reflect on my worries, my situation, and my age. I need help on making this decision from another person.

Please give me some good advice. I need it.

Sincerely,

– Katrina

Female, age 16