Teen sex is a topic many parents would love to sweep under the carpet. But the reality is that more teens are engaging in sexual activity at a younger age, with more partners, and less likely to practice safe-sex than ever before. There are many risks associated with having sex when you are not mature enough, and the risk of teenage pregnancy and contracting HIV is increased. What can you do as a parent to ensure your sexually active teen is protected?
Emphasise safety
When parents find out that their teen is having sex, they often become angry. While you can’t change what has already happened, you can communicate with your teen to influence their future decisions and behaviour. According to relationship expert Wendy Walsh, the first thing parents should do is to keep a level head and talk to their teen openly and calmly. “Find out if they have enough knowledge to keep themselves safe,” says Walsh, “Without being judgemental, you want to make sure they’re armed with all the adult information they need.”
Talk about the impact
Provide your teen with as much information about sexually transmitted diseases, safe-sex practices, and the physical and emotional consequences of having sex. Make sure you support your teen through the emotional and physical complexities that come with sexual relationships.
The effects of teenage pregnancy
The truth is that a lot of children become parents because they don’t have enough information but are engaging in sex without protection. Sadly, numerous television shows glorify teenage pregnancy rather than showing just how a teen’s life changes once they become parents. If you suspect that your teen is sexually active, have an honest conversation with your teen about what teenage pregnancy is really like – and don’t shy away from discussing contraception.
They are going through a roller-coaster of emotions
Neuropsychiatrist Daniel Siegel says, “parents should talk openly with their children about what sexuality means, which involves talking about the serious physical and emotional ramifications of having sex too soon can pose.” You may assume that your child knows about the hormonal changes they are facing, but for some, they are confused about what is going on. You need to openly talk to your child about the changes and have the sex talk as often as possible.
