I want to ask my mom to let me start taking birth control, but I'm scared she'll flip out and say no. My boyfriend and I aren't having sex yet, but when we do, I want to be ready. What do I do? -- Bailey, 15, Baltimore

Taking the birth-control pill is a big step, Bailey. It's great that you want to be responsible and that you're planning ahead, but make sure to talk to your doctor about how the Pill will affect your body. (You can see plannedparenthood.org for more info.) You usually don't need your mom's permission to get the Pill, but we fully support your being open with her before going straight to your doctor. Approach your mom when she's not busy or distracted. Say: "Mom, I'm coming to you because your support means so much to me. I'm not having sex with my boyfriend, but some day I will, and I'd really like your support to go on birth control." She might get angry or try to stop you; if she does, hear her reasons, then be prepared to put her fears to rest with all the info you've researched. (For example, let her know you realize you have to take the Pill at the same time every day for it to be effective, and that you and your boyfriend will get tested for STDs before you have sex.) Then tell her you understand if she wants time to process everything you've told her, but that you'd really love her to support you and, if possible, come with you to the doctor, so that both of you can address concerns or questions together. Always remember that abstinence is the best way to avoid unwanted pregnancy and STDs, but if that is unrealistic for you, we're glad that you're thinking about this in such a mature and responsible way.

My classmates seem to be growing up so fast, and I can't keep up. We don't laugh about the same things, go to the same parties or hang out in general. I still have two or three friends I hang out with, but what do I do with the others? I don't want to look nerdy trying to fit in. --Lorenza, 15, Los Angeles

People mature at different levels, Lorenza, and growing apart is normal. It can be upsetting, but it will feel even more uncomfortable to try to force friendships with people you can't be yourself around. You can and should still be friendly with the others, but stick more closely to those friends you're comfortable with, and work on befriending other people who are more like you. (A great way to meet people is through after-school activities or a part-time job.) Remember, as overwhelming as the social scene can be sometimes, the things that matter most are finding people you enjoy hanging out with and becoming a trusted friend. If you're not happy with your current friends most of the time, start making changes now: Life is too short to change who you are for others!

My guy is totally sweet, and we're as close as can be, but how do I let him know that I wish he would sometimes be more creative when planning dates or asking me to homecoming -- without sounding too demanding? -- Jenny, 15, Placentia, Calif.

You know what you want, and there's nothing wrong with that, Jenny. It sounds like your guy is a great boyfriend and that he'd be open to making things even better and more romantic. To get him to be more creative, show him how it's done: Plan your dream date! He'll have so much fun, he'll get inspired to do the same. If he doesn't, tell him what you need: Say "I had so much fun on our dream-date night. Now I'd love for you to plan one too!" Relationships should be fun, so if you're not having a good time, it's better to be upfront than to let it go and end up unhappy.

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