No means no. Any questions?

"No" is one of the first words we learn as children. It gives us the opportunity to make decisions for ourselves and to express what is right and wrong for us. It is a simple word, with a simple meaning.

There is no question that heightened emotions, hopes, and expectations are all part of dating and relationships. This is what makes them so exciting and fulfilling for everyone. However, expectations for relationships and dating are different for everyone regardless of gender, age, or sexual orientation. This means there is a lot of room for miscommunication and misunderstanding- even when it comes to the word "No". This also means that it can be difficult in certain situations to use the word "No" even when that is what you want to say.

No matter what the relationship or the situation it is NEVER too late to say or to hear no. Everyone has the right to change their mind about having sex at any time - even if they said yes previously....

• The couple has been sexually active in the past.
• The person has been drinking.
• A couple has been dating for a long time.
• Someone has paid for all the activities for the date.