Teenage Pregnancy & Sexual Health
"I know my boyfriend loves me really... it's just that he's at school too, so it's a bit difficult at the moment. I never knew you could get pregnant the first time you have sex... mum never told me - I thought it would be alright but it's not. I just don't know what to do."
- The UK has the highest rate of teenage pregnancy in Europe
- Be proactive in your approach by taking the initiative in raising the issue about sex and relationships
- Explain that sex is not compulsory and that saying no is an option
- Try not to give a message that sex is necessarily a problem. Be prepared to talk about sexuality, even if it seems difficult
- Try not to be judgemental, but don't be afraid to say if you think an activity may be unhealthy or could put your son or daughter at risk
- Your child will learn by example - they will learn your family's way of doing things based on values, culture, faith and belief
Preventative parenting
Children will learn about sex whether you want them to or not. Sex is everywhere around us - in magazines and newspapers, in advertisments and soap operas. Children and young people also learn about sex from each other - and what gets passed on in the playground may not be accurate or what parents want them to hear!
All these confusing messages may lead young people into situations they don't know how to deal with. As a parent you have an important role in making sure your child has the right information and skills to cope with the pressures.
You might feel concerned that by discussing sex and relationships, particularly at an early age, you will encourage your children to start having sex when they're very young. But research has proved that the opposite is true. In fact, teenagers from families where parents talk frankly about sex wait until they are older than others before they start having sex. And when they do have sex for the first time, they are more likely to use contraceptives.
Most teenagers are sexually active before they leave college. It is shocking to know that some young people are sexual active as young as 11 or 12, althrough the average age for first sex is 17. The fact is that you can't always stop your teenagers having sex and many of them will do it anyway. What you can do is to educate them about sex, pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, HIV/Aids and contraception.
If you feel uncomfortable or unsure about talking about sex with your children, don't worry - this is a common reaction. But don't let it put you off. Sex education shouldn't be a one-off talk but a gradual process of communication. If your children grow up knowing it's ok to discuss sex and the feelings that have with you, then they're much more likely to come to you for support when they need it.
The UK has the highest rate of teenage pregnancy in Europe and sexually transmitted infections are increasing among young people. Giving your children support, information and help to feel good about themselves can lessen the chances of both.
Warning Signs
Young people will not always tell you if there is something that is worrying them. you need to attentive to their needs and let them know that you are there and be prepared to listen
Action
If you think that your child is sexually active, ensure that they know where to get the right advice and information. If you think your daughter might be pregnant or if she has told you that she is, ensure she sees her GP.
What to Say
Talk to your daughters about birth control. Make your sons aware that pregnancy is not just a girl's problem.
Prevention
Make sure that your teenagers know about, and understand the importance of safe sex. Remember it's not just about avoiding unplanned pregnancy but also to avoide sexually transmitted infections.
Contacts
- Your GP
- The School Nurse
- Sex Education Forum 020 7843 19011
- Parentline Plus 0808 800 2222
- Gingerbread 0800 018 4318
- Brook Advisory Centres 0800 018 4318
- Family Planning Association 0845 310 1334
- Sex Wise 0800 28 29 30