How Do You Talk To Teens About Abstinence?
With sexually transmitted infections at an all-time high in the United States, it is more important than ever to talk to teens about alternatives to sexual activity, such as abstinence. Abstinence involves refraining from sexual activity and is the only fail-safe measure in preventing both disease and unplanned pregnancy. Be specific about what abstinence means. Different people define abstinence in different ways, but it is probably best to explain it as refraining from vaginal, anal and oral-sex activity. Discuss birth control and safe-sex methods as a part of your abstinence discussion. Even those teens who choose abstinence will at some point become sexually active, and they should be given the same information as teens who are already sexually active. Tell teens the risks associated with sexual activity, including HIV and AIDS, STDs and unplanned pregnancy. You should not try to scare teens into not having sex, but you do want them to appreciate the risks. Assure teens that they a
