Few parents want to face the idea that their teenage kids are having sex but research shows that by the time they go into secondary education, many teens are sexually active. This places them at risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Before teens embark on a life of sexual activity it is important then for parents to discuss the value of contraception.
Sexual Abstinence
Talking to teens about sex should include the topic of abstinence. Whether parents feel strongly that sex before marriage is wrong or they want their offspring to delay sex until they are more mature, parents should explain their own feelings. If parents share the reasons for their beliefs the teen may be more understanding of their parents’ values.
Discuss your teen’s thoughts about his or her own values and hopes for the future discuss how sex might affect them; explain that teens and sex can be an uncertain combination. Although the use of condoms may be advantageous in preventing pregnancy, the only sure way to prevention and sexually transmitted infections, such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes and HIV, is to practice sexual abstinence be that oral, vaginal or anal. Discuss together the many nonsexual ways that your child can show intimate feelings for someone.
However, should your child decide that the relationship and time is right for a sexual encounter then every parent should discuss was to minimise or prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.
Condoms
Condoms are the most effective way for the young sexually active to protect themselves from sexually transmitted infections and are a good prophylaxis against pregnancy. But they have to be applied correctly and used consistently.
The Contraceptive Pill
There are many different prescription contraceptives, like combination birth control pills, the contraceptive patch, vaginal ring and contraceptive injection all of which will help prevent pregnancy.
Only doctors or appropriately qualified nurses can prescribe them so the teenager will have to visit the family doctor. This is an excellent time for the doctor or preferably the practice nurse or health visitor to evaluate the teen’s medical history, do a pelvic exam, and talk over the risks and benefits of different types of birth control.
The “pill” is not a substitute for condoms it will help to prevent pregnancy but is no protection against sexual infections.
The Morning After Pill
Emergency contraception can help prevent pregnancy. In most countries the “morning after” pill is a prescription-only medication and often the age for purchasing them is the age of majority in each country, for younger people they must be medically prescribed. For it to be effective it must be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex.
Natural Family Planning; the Rhythm Method
The rhythm method is abstaining from sex during a woman's most fertile days these methods are not as effective as prescription birth control and don't offer protection from STIs. In addition, effective use of natural family planning methods requires planning unfortunately, teenage sex is frequently spontaneous. Teen girls also commonly have irregular menstrual cycles, which can make it difficult to assess her most fertile period.
Communication Difficulties
If parents find it difficult to talk to their children about early sexual activity, then the family doctor or clinic nurse is available to help. In the UK for instance, the Brooke Clinics and the Family Planning Association have a range of publications and service that will help in this matter.
Encouraging Responsible Behaviour
Whatever birth control choice is made, it is important to tell your daughter the importance of keeping track of doctor's appointments and how to make birth control use a part of her morning bath time routine. Make sure your teen knows what to do if she misses a dose or suspects that she may be pregnant.
Practical Tips for Safer Sex
If your teenage child is considering becoming sexually active, you might also provide practical tips on safer sex, such as keeping condoms handy in a purse or wallet. Explain that use of alcohol and other drugs may affect his or her judgment and increase the risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection.
Don't be afraid that talking to your teen about contraception will encourage him or her to have sex. Teenagers are curious about sex and contraception, whether or not you bring up the topic. Many parents find talking about sex and contraception with their children difficult but parental guidance can help them make informed choices that actively protect his or her sexual health.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
John Howe - John Howe is a qualified nurse, lecturer and journalist, he has written extensively on health, travel and lifestyle in Asia and Europe.
