Any advice as to how to bring the topic of sex up with your significant other?

There are some things that we’ll text each other, then I’ll say “this needs to be talked about in person.” He’ll agree, then we don’t.

He’s pushing for us to have sex. I actually want to. He will be my first. But at the same time, I’m not sure that I’m ready. In the heat of a makeout session, I get in the mindset of “do me now”. But there’s always a feeling of guilt that sets in.

I guess what I’m asking is, A.) how to be a better communicator and be the one to say “let’s talk about sex”.

And B.) how on earth do you rationalize your mindset/know that you’re ready?