Teens receive a lot of information from peers and online, but this misinformation may lead to serious consequences like pregnancy or STIs. Pediatric specialists at Novant Health can help teens with sex education, support and guidance as they explore sexuality during puberty.
The following safe sex tips for teens can help them protect themselves from STIs and unintended pregnancy: Abstinence is the most effective way to prevent STIs and unintended pregnancy. Condoms and contraception are also necessary.
1. Don’t be afraid to talk about sex
Many teens feel that sex is too personal to discuss with their parents, leaving them without any real knowledge of sexual health and safety. And that can have serious consequences. It is a well known fact that young people who do not feel comfortable talking about sex with their parents are much more likely to experience sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or unplanned pregnancy.
This is why it is so important to talk about sex. It is not easy, but it is essential for a healthy life. Teens get a lot of information about sex from friends and peers, so it is important that they hear honest and reliable information from their parents as well.
It is also important to make sure your teen understands that sexual activity exposes them to the risk of STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, HPV, and HIV/AIDS. This is why it is important to stress that they should always use condoms, and never kiss anyone who does not have herpes or is a virgin.
And remember, this is not just a one-time “big talk.” This is an ongoing conversation that should take place on a regular basis. It is not meant to scare your teen, but to ensure that they understand how to practice safe sex and the responsibilities that come with it.
2. Don’t be afraid to use condoms
Regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation, all teens are at risk for unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Using condoms consistently and correctly can help reduce the risk. It’s important that teens have easy access to condoms – whether they’re at school, in their doctor’s office or even in retail stores. Interventions that increase availability and accessibility of condoms can lead to more consistent and correct use, according to a recent study.
Teens should use condoms or other barrier methods (like dental dams) before and after vaginal, oral and anal sex to decrease the exchange of body fluids that can spread STIs. These body fluids include saliva, blood, vaginal secretions and semen. In addition, teens should avoid sexual contact with people who have STIs such as herpes B virus, chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis.
Adolescents are at high risk for poor sexual and reproductive health outcomes, including unintended pregnancies and STIs such as HIV, due to a combination of early and unprotected sex and inconsistent condom use. To improve adolescent condom use, it is important to understand what influences decision-making, such as concerns about the future, fear of sexual and reproductive consequences, and barriers to regular use. Condoms should be inspected and replaced before each use to ensure they are in good condition. They can become sticky or dry and break if they come into contact with sharp objects like jewelry, piercings or teeth, so store them away from these items. Also, make sure to check the expiration date printed on the packaging and always use lubrication.
3. Don’t be afraid to get tested
When sex is unprotected, teens are at risk of getting sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), which include bacteria like chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis and viruses including herpes simplex virus and human papillomavirus. These infections can lead to serious health problems, including infertility and HIV infection. Teens who have sex with several partners raise their risk for infection. Many STIs have no symptoms and may go away on their own, but they can also lead to long-term health problems.
Parents should talk to their teen about the risks of sexual activity. They should use accurate information and not scare tactics. Teens who talk with their parents about sex are less likely to have STDs.
A good time to talk with your teen about sex is when you are at routine health care visits. Your health care provider can teach your teen about safe sex and contraception, and help you find the right tools for your teen.
You can also ask your health care provider for vaccines that prevent STIs, such as the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. This vaccine is given to girls at age 11 and to boys at age 12. Your doctor can also give you pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a pill that reduces the chance of getting an STI if you have sex with someone who already has one.
4. Don’t be afraid to ask for help
There are lots of places that teens can learn about sex and puberty, including school, music and TV. But the values they absorb will be shaped by what parents and other caring adults teach them.
It’s important to remember that safe sex isn’t just about birth control. It also includes getting tested for STIs and avoiding unintended pregnancy. And it’s about making sure that all sexual activity is consensual.
STIs (also called STDs) are infections that can spread through any kind of sexual contact – including oral, vaginal and anal sex. Common STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. HPV is the most common cause of anal and cervical cancers.
Teens who have sex without using condoms or having more than one partner are at high risk for STDs. That’s why it is important to talk to your teen about how to prevent and use protection.
It’s also important to remember that not all teens are ready for sex. If your teen isn’t ready, you can help them stay safe by encouraging abstinence until they are. Abstinence can be a way to show love that is just as meaningful as sex and provides more emotional support if they do get into a relationship later. And it can provide a better opportunity to practice healthy sex habits and have a positive attitude towards sex.
