Parents: Get the sex talk over with
December 9, 2009 | 4:25
pm
If you’re thinking about talking to your child about sex, you could be too late. Kids appear to be engaging in sexual activity much earlier than they have in the past – but today’s parent hasn’t gotten with the program.
In a new study published online Monday in the journal Pediatrics, more than 40% of teens surveyed said they had had intercourse before discussing key issues with their parents. Such issues included sexually transmitted diseases, how to use a condom, and what to do if your partner refuses to use a condom. Boys had the talk even later than girls. Parental talks for both genders were still behind the times, though – which is troubling, given that medical professionals are recommending early and frequent STD screening for young women within a year of having sex for the first time.
For the reluctant parent, a handy primer from Planned Parenthood on discussing birds and bees with your child.
In a new study published online Monday in the journal Pediatrics, more than 40% of teens surveyed said they had had intercourse before discussing key issues with their parents. Such issues included sexually transmitted diseases, how to use a condom, and what to do if your partner refuses to use a condom. Boys had the talk even later than girls. Parental talks for both genders were still behind the times, though – which is troubling, given that medical professionals are recommending early and frequent STD screening for young women within a year of having sex for the first time.
For the reluctant parent, a handy primer from Planned Parenthood on discussing birds and bees with your child.
-- Amina Khan
Don't let your kid turn into a Tiger Woods-style sex fiend... Have the talk soon. http://www.newsy.com/videos/experts_want_parents_to_give_sex_talk_earlier
Posted by: akorozco | December 10, 2009 at 08:12 AM