Adolescent sexuality is a stage of human development in which adolescents experience and explore sexual feelings. Interest in sexuality intensifies during the onset of puberty , and sexuality is often a vital aspect of teenagers' lives. Sexual interest among adolescents, as among adults, can vary greatly, and is influenced by cultural norms and mores , sex education , as well as comprehensive sexuality education provided, sexual orientation , and social controls such as age-of-consent laws. Sexual activity in general is associated with various risks. Contraceptives specifically reduce the chance of pregnancy. The risks are higher for young adolescents because their brains are not neurally mature.

Sex education is offered in many schools, but don't count on classroom instruction alone. Sex education needs to happen at home, too. Here's help talking to your teen about sex. Sex education basics may be covered in health class, but your teen might not hear — or understand — everything he or she needs to know to make tough choices about sex.

During adolescence, teens learn to relate to their peers as friends and potential romantic or sexual partners. This is a normal part of teen development. Sexual thoughts can be intense or confusing. Sexual orientation refers to the gender traditionally, but not limited to, male or female that a person is attracted to.

You can help your child by modelling and reinforcing values and beliefs about safety, responsibility, honest communication and respect in relationships by treating your partner with respect and talking about how to stay safe. Most teenagers will experiment with sexual behaviour at some stage — this is a normal, natural and powerful urge in these years. But not all teenage relationships include sex. Teenagers are also maturing emotionally and socially.