Curious about having sex for the first time? Do you have a bunch of questions? (find out)

Curious about having sex for the first time? Do you have a bunch of questions that you feel a little awk about asking your rents? Meet Amber Madison, the author ofHooking Up: A Girl's All-Out Guide to Sex & Sexuality. Here, Amber answers all the questions you're too embarrassed to ask. Read on for advice on your first time, how to know you're ready, and more!

Q: Everyone says that sex is fun and that it feels good. I'm a virgin and curious — is that really true?

A: Yes, sex can be fun and feel good, but it's not true that sex just "feels good" across the board in any situation. It's impossible to separate the act of sex from the person you're doing it with — or the person you are. Because if you're not really ready to be having sex, or you're doing it in the wrong relationship, you'll be worrying about it way too much to enjoy it. But if you feel totally comfortable, secure, and cared about, and sex is something that you truly feel ready for, then yes! It can be an amazing experience. The best way to ensure that your first experience will be a good one is to wait until you are absolutely 150% ready, confident, and comfortable in your relationship.

Q: My boyfriend and have been talking about having sex. Will it hurt? I'm afraid something will go wrong.

A: Sex shouldn't hurt too much the first time, but it certainly can hurt a lot if you're not really ready for it. Being nervous can cause you to clench up your muscles, and if you and your partner haven't worked up to intercourse by making out and touching each other a lot first, your body won't be aroused—and that can make things pretty uncomfortable. But here's the thing: If you're really scared about doing it, like you say you are, then it doesn't sound like you're truly ready. Having sex is a big responsibility because yes, there is always a chance something could go wrong. Even if you use protection, the condom could break, and no birth control is 100% foolproof. (Not to mention the risk of STDs…) You have every right to feel freaked about that and not want to risk the consequences! But when you're really ready for it, you'll feel excited, secure, and safe…like the way you feel before a rollercoaster—good scared, not bad scared.