While it is advisable to start talking with your child about sexual matters from a young age, it is never too late to start. Conversing on the subject takes the taboo out of it, and while it may feel uncomfortable or awkward to begin with (for you both), it will become easier with practice and time.
Parents can make a big difference by talking with their children about sex. It is common for teenagers to name their parents as their biggest influence when it comes to decisions about having sex. Teenagers who report that they talk about sex with their parents are far more likely to wait longer to have sex, tend to have fewer partners, and commonly use contraceptives when they do participate in sexual activity.
Local authorities invest in sexual health clinics that offer services for young people, and with online “one stop shop” websites like https://www.bexleysexualhealth.org/chlamydia_screening/ it is easier than ever to seek advice.
With cuts being made to public services, it is even more important for parents to do their part.
Sexuality relates to a wide variety of topics. These include female and male bodies and how they function, reproduction, human development, healthy and unhealthy relationships, sexual behaviours, and the prevention of STDs and pregnancy.
Buying chlamydia testing kits for your sexually active teens, and purchasing books about sex, are all part of being a responsible parent who is willing to educate and listen to your teenager, preparing them for adulthood and the responsibilities that come from engaging in sexual relationships.
Sexual health is a vital subject area and one that should be discussed prior to your teenager having sex. Research shows that 7 out of 10 teenagers have had sex by the age of 19, so discussing how to practice safe sex to avoid sexual infections and unplanned pregnancy while your teenager is still young is essential.
Online sites such as checkurself.org offer free testing kits for sexual diseases specifically for young people. With STDs such as chlamydia, genital warts and herpes rife in teenagers, along with many other sexual infections, educating your child on sexual health is crucial for their well-being.
By talking to your teen about sexual health and sexuality from an early age, you are providing them with the information to make their own responsible decisions when it comes to sex.