LOSING IT | INTRODUCTION

Back in the Fifties, you might have been 21 before you lost your virginity. In the Eighties, the average age had dropped to 17 – still above the age of consent. Today, a quarter of girls and nearly a third of boys in the UK have had sex before they reach their 16th birthday.

But why are so many teens losing it earlier than ever before? Adult at 14 explores whether it is simply because teens are growing up more quickly or if peer pressure and popular culture are playing a significant part.

Check out our Virginity Q&As for other readers' dilemmas about this important decision and read our experts' replies.

Sex Bites: First Time uncovers some of the myths about losing your virginity. Or see Sex Bites: The Big Decision for good and bad reasons to have sex.