Kids and Health Care: Sex Education as a Health Factor

Preventing STDs by encouraging sex education among older children has long been a staple of public health policy. It's also been a controversial topic among many PTAs, school boards and parents.

Two different studies released in early 2004 suggested that children weren't learning as much about preventing STDs as some may think.

One concluded that STDs were on the rise among teens and young adults; the second concluded that only improved sex education -- including instruction on using condoms -- would stem that tide.

The first study -- published by the Alan Guttmacher Institute, a nonprofit group that advocates abortion and other reproductive rights -- found the 15 to 24 age group accounted for nearly half of the cases of sexually transmitted diseases diagnosed in the U.S. in 2000, even though they constitute only a quarter of the nation's sexually active population.

The second study -- performed by researchers at the University of North Carolina -- said that only comprehensive sex education (teaching abstinence and instruction on condom use) could reduce the spread of STDs. Other approaches, especially programs advocating sexual abstinence, weren't effective.

Both reports pointed to other surveys, which suggested that, while most parents say they want their children to get information about sex from them, only a fraction actually provide that information. Most parents want to talk with their children about sex and sexuality, but are not sure how to begin.

Some tips for getting past awkwardness, from a pamphlet published by The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation:

• Communicate your values about sex. Kids who feel they can talk with their parents about sex are less likely to engage in high-risk behavior.
• Start early. Teaching your kids about sex demands a gentle, continuous flow of information. If your child hasn't started asking questions about sex, look for a good opportunity to bring it up.
• Talk about more than the "birds and the bees." Explain that sexual relationships involve caring, concern and responsibility.
• Provide accurate, age-appropriate information and talk with your kids not only about their current stage of development but about the next stage, too.
• Don't worry about knowing all the answers. What you know is a lot less important than how you respond.

Some Web sites that contain information about STDs and how to talk to your children about sex:

• www.iwannaknow.org. A teen site operated by the American Social Health Organization.
• www.goaskalice.columbia.edu. Information about STDs from Columbia University.
• www.talkingwithkids.org. Tips on how to discuss tough subjects like sex, AIDS and STDs with youngsters.