When you're making out with a guy, how do you stop it from going too far without hurting his feelings?
– Andrea*

It's obvious that you really like and care about this guy because you are concerned about his feelings. The best approach with him is honesty. Let him know straight up that you aren't ready to go any further. Hopefully, he's concerned about your feelings, too.

A relationship is a mutual partnership, and if one of you isn't ready, the couple as a whole isn't ready. Everyone progresses at different paces sexually, and every relationship is different based on the two individuals involved. Something special like physical contact is private and shouldn't be embarrassing or even hurtful if one of you isn't ready.

For more information, check out these articles:
Virginity: A Very Personal Decision
Abstinence
About Birth Control: What You Need to Know
Talking to Your Partner About Condoms
Am I in a Healthy Relationship?

Reviewed by: Larissa Hirsch, MD
Date reviewed: May 2007

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*Names have been changed to protect user privacy.