Boyfriends? Girlfriends? It's all many young people can think about. The adolescent years are when most start feeling sexually attracted to other people, and for some, that attraction is not necessarily for members of the opposite sex. If you think you might be attracted to someone of the same gender (same sex) there are tons of things to consider. One that might not be really high on your list is sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Gay teens deal with feelings of being different, rejection, not fitting in, and so many other things. Safer sex is probably not even on the brain. If you are struggling with coming out to your family and friends, you probably aren't thinking about how to talk about safer sex with a potential partner. Questions like, "Where can I get condoms?" "How do I use them?" "How do I convince my boyfriend to use them?" "Why do I need to use them?" can seem quite overwhelming.

Plus, there's the fact that there are relatively few role models for gay and lesbian teens, and little specific information on STDs among gay teens. That doesn't make STD and HIV prevention seem like an important issue. But, think for a minute. Some estimates suggest that one in five HIV-positive men were apparently infected during their adolescent years (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1995). Also, one in four sexually experienced teens has an STD (American Social Health Association, 1999).

So, you're wondering what to do...check out the information throughout this site. There are helpful hints on things like how to talk about condoms (with anybody), safer sex information, STD information and even help if you just aren't sure what you want to do yet.

Wanna read about other gay, lesbian and transgender teens? Click here.