62 Health Concerns of Girls
Pressured
or Forced
Sex
If someone has
forced you to have
sex when you do not
want it, it is rape.
327
rape
Pressure to have sex with a boyfriend
(‘date rape’)
All over the world, young girls and women are forced to
have sex when they do not want to. Often it is done by
boyfriends who claim to love them. In some places this is
called ‘date rape’. The force may not only be physical.
You can feel pressure from words or feelings. He
may threaten you or say “please” or somehow
make you feel guilty or ashamed if
you do not have sex. This is still
wrong. No one should be made
to have sex when they do not
want to have it.
Prevention:
• If he wants to have sex and you do not, you can tell him
you are flattered by his desire for you but that you are
not ready. If you are afraid of being alone with the person,
bring someone with you, or ask someone else to talk
with him.
• Say “NO” loudly if you are
pushed to have sex. Keep
saying “NO” if you have to.
Also say no with your body.
If you say “NO,” but give in
with your body, he will think
that you really mean “yes.”
NO!
• Move away if you are touched
in any way that you do not
like. Your feelings are warning
you that something worse may
happen. Make a lot of noise
and be ready to run if you
have to.
• Do not drink alcohol or take drugs. Alcohol and drugs
make you less able to use your judgement and control what
happens to you.
• Go out in groups. In many places, young couples court or
date in groups. You can still get to know a boy, but you are
less likely to be pushed into having sex because you will not
be alone.
• Go only to safe places where others can see you.
• Plan ahead. Decide how much touching will be too much
for you. Do not get caught by your feelings and let things
happen to you.
Where Women Have No Doctor 2012