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Talking to your teenager about contraception

By Giulia Draycott

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Getting the timing right

Of course, exactly what you impart to your teenagers will be down to your own values, morals and feelings about the subject. However it's clear that teenagers do want advice on sex and contraception from their parents - and that the ideal time to discuss this is from 11 to 14.

A report by agony aunt, Anita Naik published in 2008 offers real reassurance about just how important your role as a parent is at this sensitive time:

"The essential time for talking about sex and relationships is 11-14 years. This is the age when teens are most receptive to advice and parental guidance about sex and relationships. This will inform their ability to make measured and responsible decisions throughout their teens and into adult life...

"British teens are eager to talk - 75% of 11 - 14 year olds want, but currently find it difficult, to talk about sex and relationships with their parents. A resounding 99% feel talking wouldn't encourage them to have sex as many parents fear. Despite this, over half of parents (55%) hold back due to embarrassment because they don't know how to start."

'Everyday Conversations, Every Day', June 2008, commissioned by Department for Children, Schools and Families⁸.

Isn't it time that, as parents, we overcame those fears and simply found somewhere, some time, to start that conversation with our teenagers?

For more useful information on contraception please visit www.Contraception.co.uk