I've just always heard that losing your virginity is very painful for girls. But I want my first time to be very special, especially since I"m not going to have sex until after I'm married, so my first time will be on my wedding night, which should be a wonderful time, not a painful one.

Is there anything I can do to prepare myself?

can I "open" myself up somehow, or even "pop" my own "cherry" ? (ow... )

Was your first time really painful?

It's really not that bad, otherwise no one would want to even try it a second time.

Not all women feel pain, and some feel more than others, it depends on you and your body. It pays to take it slow and make sure that you are ready before penetration. Lots of foreplay and very gentle and slow, no wham bam thank you maam. ;)

As for "stretching" yourself, I don't think there's really anything you can do without actually breaking your hymen yourself, and I wouldn't recommend that.

My first time was painful, but not overly. It was a quick sharp pain that stopped seconds later. Yes I did bleed, and that was a bit embarrassing as my partner decided he'd clean it up because it was his fault. ;)

I have fond memories of that night, and not many people can say that about their first time.

I think it's great that you are waiting.

Good luck.