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Over a century ago Freud pointed out that despite a rich vocabulary of many related words, there are only four basic human emotions: fear, anger, sadness and joy. The emotional consequences of any of our decisions may involve any of these feelings.
If a teen is having sexual intercourse voluntarily, is using appropriate protection, has made the decision to have sex ahead of time and without feeling pressured or forced to have sex, then the emotional consequences may be positive (joy, pleasure, feeling loved and wanted, excitement, discovery).
You are probably asking about the negative consequences. Negative emotional consequences may occur if anyone, teen or adult:
- Does not use appropriate protection.
- Has intercourse with a new partner on the spur of the moment.
- Gives in to pressure such as, “We’re grown up now, we can do this if we want,” or “If you loved me, you’d do this.”
- Is forced to engage in any sexual act.
Having sexual intercourse without protecting oneself and one’s partner from pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can have serious physical and emotional consequences. Fear (anxiety, guilt) about pregnancy or disease is common. Anger (if the sex was forced or if the relationship ends) is likely. Sadness (about losing virginity or a reputation perhaps) may be felt. Some adolescents who have had sexual intercourse feel regret and decide to postpone having further intercourse until a later point in their lives. In our experience, this is most often the case when the circumstances have been one or more of the situations listed above. Also, if a parent or someone else unexpectedly learns that the teen has had sex, the parent’s reaction (such as disapproval, shaming, blaming) may have negative emotional consequences for the teen. For most people, intimate relationships come with many emotional consequences, positive and negative. Teens, as well as adults, have to understand their own values, needs, and priorities – and choose wisely for themselves.
Do you have a question?  As a reminder, this information should not be relied on as medical advice and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. Please read our full  .
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