IF you are making a decision that is not based on pressure from the older male, and this is something YOU want to do there is nothing harmful about it. I always worry that when there is an age difference that there may be pressure from either you or him and that isn't a healthy reason to engage in sex.

There are other considerations that you need to contemplate and take action on to make it more healthy. You need to be well protected from getting pregnant (unless you intend to and want to)because it continues to be the woman's responsibility to take care of children once they are born. If you should want to make a decision other than giving birth, the man may object to adoption or abortion and you will not be able to do either.

Also, an older man is more likely to have had previous partners. Even if he has used condoms 100% of the time, he may have contracted a sexually transmitted disease from someone else and inadvertently pass it on to you. Women's bodies hide these diseases even more than a man's and having a disease can have drastic effects on your life. Please make sure that the two of you are well protected, and always use latex or polyurethane condoms if you engage in sexual interourse or any other behaviors that may exchange fluids.

Please write again if you have more questions.

Reviewed by Sexual Health Editorial Team