Parenting teens can feel like walking a tightrope, especially when it comes to delicate topics like sexual health. However, it is not a topic that we as parents should shy away from and here is why!
The recent House of Commons Women and Equalities Committee report highlights the rise of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the UK. This alarming trend underscores the need for more comprehensive sexual health education—not only in schools but also at home. Talking openly with your teen about sex might feel awkward at first, but it’s one of the most important conversations you can have to set them up for safe, informed decisions in the future.
As a parent, you play a crucial role in fostering an environment where your teen feels comfortable discussing these issues. Here’s a breakdown of the report’s findings, and how you can use this information to guide positive and informed conversations with your teen.
The Gaps in Sex Education
According to a survey mentioned in the report, while 46% of respondents felt their school sex education covered the basics, nearly 20% didn’t feel prepared for real-life situations at all. Often, teens turn to the internet for advice, but while it can provide useful information, it’s not always reliable. Around 57% of respondents agreed that the internet spreads a lot of misinformation about sexual health.
As a parent, you can bridge this gap by having open, honest conversations with your teen. Acknowledge that while they may learn some things online, not everything they read is accurate. Encourage them to ask questions and be curious, without judgment. Let them know that you are a trustworthy source of information, and that you can also guide them to reliable online resources or medical professionals if needed.
Top Tip: A great way to start these conversations is when you spot something in the media or a programme that you are all watching. The TV show Sex Education was a great conversation starter for me with my own teenagers. The show highlighted lots of issues around Sex Education for young people, and discussing the storylines is a step away from your own family, making the conversations easier to start.
Destigmatizing Sexual Health
Embarrassment and shame often prevent people from seeking sexual health advice, and this starts young. The report highlights that almost 30% of respondents had never discussed sexual health with a healthcare provider, and many avoided the topic due to feelings of embarrassment.
As a parent, you can help break this cycle by normalising conversations about sexual health at home. Create a safe space where your teen feels comfortable discussing not just sex, but also the emotional and physical aspects of relationships. Use real-life examples or news stories to start the conversation. If you’re honest and non-judgmental, your teen is more likely to come to you with concerns or questions.
Understanding Sexual Health Conditions
The report also dives into the stigma surrounding common sexual health conditions, particularly among men. Conditions like erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation are often seen as taboo, but they are common and treatable. Your teen may not be at a stage where this is relevant to them, but it’s helpful to reinforce the idea that sexual health issues can affect anyone and there’s no shame in seeking help.
By talking about these conditions openly, you can reduce the stigma and encourage your teen to take a proactive approach to their own sexual health, now and in the future.
STIs and the Importance of Contraception
Perhaps the most critical takeaway from the report is the rise in STIs, especially among young people. Condoms and other barrier forms of contraception remain the most effective way to prevent the spread of STIs, yet many young people do not use them consistently. Only 28% of respondents in the survey reported using contraception every time they had sex.
This is an opportunity to have a frank discussion with your teen about the importance of contraception—not just to prevent pregnancy, but to protect against STIs. Encourage them to take responsibility for their own sexual health, whether that’s using condoms or having open discussions with their partners about contraception and STI status.
Top Tip: Remind your teenagers where they can access free contraception and condoms, most sexual health or family planning clinics offer free condoms. These clinics also provide advice and information about safe sex and contraception. Also many schools and colleges, especially those with dedicated sexual health education programs, may distribute free condoms to students or offer advice on where to get them. You can also have some at home that your teens can access no questions asked.
Breaking the Cycle of Embarrassment
Ultimately, the report shows that shame and embarrassment are two of the biggest barriers to sexual health care. As a parent, you have the power to challenge these feelings early on. By being approachable and open-minded, you can empower your teen to take control of their sexual health with confidence.
Sobia Qasim, Superintendent Pharmacist at Curely, puts it best: “Sexual health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, yet it’s an area where stigma and misinformation continue to pose significant barriers to access and education. Encouraging open dialogue and breaking down these stigmas are essential steps toward improving sexual health outcomes across the UK.”
As parents, the more we can talk openly about sexual health, the better equipped our teens will be to navigate their own journeys safely and confidently. Let’s start those conversations today.
