Sex?— A Healthy Sexuality Resource - Government of Nova Scotia

This isConfidential, Right?If you’re thinking about having sex, it’sgood to get all your questions answeredfirst.Talk to someone you trust, feel comfortable with, and whoyou think will have good information. Talking to friends isgreat, but they don’t always know all the facts.You can talk to:A parent or family member•A nurse—a public health nurse or a nurse in a school, aclinic, or a Youth Health CentreA teacher or guidance counsellorAn adult you trust• A doctorWhen you’re looking for someone to talk to, keep in mindthat not everyone will keep what you say confidential.Doctors and nurses are required by law to keepanything you tell them confidential. This means thatas long as a doctor or nurse believes that you are matureenough to understand medical advice, then he or she cannottell anyone what you say or give anyone information aboutyour health. This includes your parents.There are a few exceptions to this rule to keep you—and others—safe. You’ll find details under “Limits toConfidentiality” on pages 106-107.So, when you see a doctor or nurse, if you want to be sureyour talk remains between the two of you just say, “This isconfidential, right?”Sex, Relationships, and Decisions23