Sex is one of the best parts of a solid relationship with your girlfriend, but it can also be one of the most daunting. You need to put some thought into what you would do in a variety of situations before you focus on starting a sexual relationship with a girl. Sex makes everything more serious; it takes the relationship one step further. Are you sure that you are ready, and that you want to take that step with her?

Sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy are a risk anytime you have sex. While condoms are about 97% effective in preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases when used correctly, there's always room for error. While many STD's are treatable with antibiotics, some last for a lifetime, such as herpes or HIV/AIDS.

What would you do if your girlfriend became pregnant? While your input and opinion is valid, in the end it is her decision whether she wants to keep the baby, have an abortion, or give it up for adoption. You must be financially and emotionally prepared to deal with any decision she makes, including unexpected fatherhood. If she does keep the child, it doesn't matter if the two of you break up and detest each other - you will still have to deal with her for the rest of your life, share visitation and be civil, and pay child support.

If you have sex too soon with a girl, she may get the impression that you're only interested in a sexual relationship with her. Also, for many women, having sex means a relationship is serious. If the man just wants a physical connection, it can be extremely hurtful when she finds out. If you rush into sex, you can't expect that there will be much of a connection or trust between you afterward. Also, what will you have to look forward to if you go all the way right off the bat? The innocent steps leading up to sex, such as flirting, kissing and touching, are fun and exciting, and make the relationship much more interesting and loving.

Sex is more than just a physical feeling; it’s emotional. The more feelings you have for the woman in your head, the better it will be. If you’re just looking for the physical joys of sex but don't really see a future in the relationship - wait. It will be more special with a lady that you're falling in love with.