Dear Joel666,

Many straight and bisexual people are also attracted to people of their own gender and there is nothing unusual about such feelings. Some people take action on these feelings and some people do not. But having these feelings does not necessarily mean a person is bisexual, straight, gay, or lesbian.

It may be helpful to find out how other teens deal with this issue. Internet sources include a Web site maintained by The National Coalition for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender Youth at www.outproud.org. Another Internet source is a Web site maintained by Youth Resource at www.youthresource.com.

And remember that having sex may mean something to one partner, and something else for the other. It is usually helpful to talk about what you want and don't want — your expectations — before getting into a sexual situation. That way, both partners are "on the same page" about what having sex will mean for the relationship.

But it's very important to get onto the same page even after a relationship becomes sexual. Having sex with a friend can be confusing. The best way to clear away any confusion is to talk with your friend about what you want and don't want in your relationship together.

It might also be helpful to talk about the feelings you are having with someone you trust — a parent, a friend, a professional counselor, or someone else who cares about you and about what will be good for you.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.