My response is probably totally different (maybe biased b/c I am only 25 and can very well remember what it felt like to be 17. But I would say, if you've thought it through carefully with all the pros/cons, your reasons and your expectations, and possible outcomes and still want to, then go for it. Condoms (used properly) are an absolute must, and I'd recommend getting evaluated for contraceptives as well. Also, I'd recommend having talk with this guy beforehand about protection, STDs, past partners, etc...if you can't talk to him, you probably don't wanna sleep with him. Even if he isn't your forever person, as long as you know that and are OK with it, that's fine.

I don't regret my first at all. (It wasn't very good or long-lasting, and I definitely didn't have an orgasm, so be prepared for that). I regret having been with him so long in the first place (b/c he was a jerk/loser) but not losing my virginity to him. We had been together since I was 15, and I was almost 17 when it happened. We talked about it for a few months and I got on the pill a month beforehand. We stayed together for 2 years after that. I am glad he's not my forever person and that my "first" was a true love but not the man I'll spend the rest of my life with...I would hate to have had sex with only one person in my life. It was a good learning and growing experience for me. I realize though, that many people feel very differently than I...

Good luck in whatever you decide to do!