Why Teenage Pregnancy Prevention is Complicated

Teenage pregnancy is a very complex problem. The rise of teenage pregnancy rates should not be attributed to mere physical effects of being on the verge of puberty. Rather, it is a product of various psychological, mental, emotional, sociological, and cultural factors that may eventually encourage a teenager to engage in a risky sexual behavior.

It should be noted that programs directed towards teenage pregnancy prevention should be complex as well. It should include various elements in the society such as the family, the school, the church, the government and other social organizations. Programs that aim to prevent teenage pregnancy should be based on actual studies why most teenagers actually engage in sexually risky activity. Among the most common aspects of these programs are sex education, introduction to contraceptive use, and parental guidance.

Sex Education

According to the most recent survey, eight out of ten Americans believe that sex education should be included in the school curriculum. Aside from the school, however, experts point out that sex education should also be taught in youth development programs and in other co-curricular activities.

Basically sex education includes lessons in the dynamics of pregnancy. It points out the various effects of pregnancy and child bearing not only for the mother but for the father as well. Sex education also includes lessons about puberty and the many emotional factors that may prompt a person to indulge in a sexual intercourse.

It also includes lessons on how to be assertive when it comes to comes to sex. Reproductive health lessons that include discussions on various sexually transmitted diseases are also a prime component. Furthermore, sex education promotes teenage pregnancy prevention primarily because it discusses the negative consequences of early child bearing.

Introduction to contraceptive use

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP), the reason why the rate of teenage pregnancy has declined over the last two decades is because teenagers have been exposed to contraceptive use.

Basically, introduction to contraceptive use provides a very effective option for sexually active teenagers. In cases where actual sexual activities cannot be avoided, most teenagers opt to use contraceptive to lessen the risks of sexually transmitted diseases and teenage pregnancy. Among the most popular contraceptives that may help teenage pregnancy prevention are condoms, injectable contraceptives, and pills.

Parental guidance

Though sex education is done in schools, churches, and other youth development organizations, studies show that parents can actually help in teenage pregnancy prevention. This can be done primarily by providing proper guidance and support to children as they grow up, especially during the puberty period.

Children look upon their parents for values and behaviors regarding sex and sexuality. As kids grow up, the parents are expected to provide them with advices on how they should explore their sexuality and how they should go about in various sexual activities.

In essence, awareness about very risky sexual behaviors should start at the home. The child should be informed about the responsibilities and consequences of parenthood. Moreover, family planning, safe sex practices, and proper child rearing skills should be taught as well. GP