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You can also read answers to questions others have asked:

What is abstinence?

A N S W E R : Abstinence is choosing to save sexual activity for marriage. Sexual activity refers to any type of genital contact or sexual stimulation including, but not limited to, sexual intercourse. Abstinence is the only 100% effective protection from the possible physical, emotional, mental, and social consequences of sex before marriage. Abstinence is the safest and healthiest lifestyle.

What if I have already been involved sexually, is it too late for me?

A N S W E R : Among those teens who have been sexually active, 8 out of 10 girls and 6 out of 10 boys say that they wish they had waited to have sex. It is never too late to start over! Starting over is the decision to stop being involved sexually and wait until marriage. You can’t do anything about yesterday but you can do everything about today and you can prepare for what you will do tomorrow!

What is a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)?

A N S W E R : Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), also called Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are primarily bacterial or viral infections which are contracted through sexual activity. Bacterial and other non-viral STDs can be cured with medication. Viral STDs can be medically treated, but they cannot be cured. STDs are not only contracted through sexual intercourse. Any kind of sexual activity can spread STDs from one person to another. For more information on STDs go to www.cdc.gov

How do I know if I have a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)?

A N S W E R : If you have been involved in any kind of sexual activity you are at risk for contracting STDs. Because many STDs do not have symptoms the only way to find out if you have a STD is to get tested. As a teen you can be tested confidentially and for free through the Public Department of Health. For clinic sites go to www.gettestedchicago.com/ourpeople.asp

How do I know if I’m pregnant?

A N S W E R : The most common symptom of pregnancy is a missed period. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean you’re pregnant. Other symptoms may be:
- Tender or swollen breasts
- Frequent urination
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue
- Lightheadedness or fainting
- Backaches
- Food cravings or aversions
- Darkening of the nipples
If you think you may be pregnant, the only way to know for sure is to have a pregnancy test. It is important to seek medical care and counseling as soon as possible, even if you do not plan on continuing your pregnancy. To schedule an appointment for a free pregnancy test and consultation contact us at www.caris.org

What are my options if I am pregnant?

A N S W E R : If you are pregnant, you have three choices:
- Continue your pregnancy and choose to parent.
- Continue your pregnancy and choose adoption.
- Terminate the pregnancy and choose abortion.
Caris is dedicated to make sure that you have all of the information necessary to make you feel confident in your decision. To find out more about these options contact us at www.caris.org