If you feel confused, speaking with a trusted person or qualified counselor may help you process your emotions without judgment.
- The Importance of Consent
Consent is one of the most essential parts of any sexual relationship.
Consent means that everyone involved freely agrees to the sexual activity taking place. It should be informed, voluntary, and ongoing.
A person can change their mind at any time. Agreeing to one activity does not automatically mean agreeing to another, and being in a relationship does not remove the need for consent.
Someone who is asleep, unconscious, or too impaired to make a clear decision cannot provide meaningful consent at that moment.
Pressure, threats, manipulation, and fear also undermine a person’s ability to make a free choice.
If someone experiences sexual activity without consent, the responsibility lies with the person who violated their boundaries—not with the person who was harmed.
People who have experienced coercion or assault deserve support and medical care without blame. Depending on the circumstances, healthcare professionals can discuss emergency contraception, STI testing, preventive treatment, and emotional support.
