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Teen PregnancyImagine my surprise, after all the talks and hours spent trying to educate, to hear those dreadful words, "Mommy, I think my girlfriend might be pregnant." This is nothing a mother wants to hear from her teenage son. My heart nearly sank in my chest, but I knew I must handle this issue with caution and delicacy so as not to discourage my child from coming to me for help.In my home, we have always talked openly about issues such as sex and drugs. I feel it is primarily the parents' role to share this information with their children. Communicating with our children begins as soon as they enter the world. While they may not have the vocabulary to respond to us as infants, we can still build a bond and establish trust by communicating and showing our love. The statistics captured in 2007 for STD cases in Virginia are alarming: 2,620 girls ranging from ages 13 through 19 and 528 boys in the same age range were diagnosed with Chlamydia. It is apparent that our message is failing to reach its intended audience and we are now faced with an epidemic. In April of 2008, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that one in four young women ages 14 through 19 have a sexually transmitted disease. The scary news is that many of these diseases are undetectable as they do not present any symptoms. The human papillomavirus is the most common sexually transmitted disease and can lead to genital warts, or worse, cervical cancer. Chlamydia is the second most common STD; it usually has no symptoms. However, females may notice a burning sensation during urination and possibly vaginal discharge. If these symptoms are ignored, the disease could result in lower back discomfort, nausea and even abdominal pain. We must unite and become proactive. How many parents talk to their children about these issues? How many parents are in denial about the reality of their children having sex? How many educators and parents support sex education programs? Everyone must be on the same page if we are going to prevent future outbreaks and educate our children about the importance of being safe. I would recommend seeking the guidance of your child's pediatrician to help determine what age our daughters should begin to get pelvic exams. I do not condone teenage sex, but aren't the numbers proof enough that it is happening? The focus has shifted from the fear of teenage pregnancy. According to statistics released by the CDC in April 2008, fewer teens are getting pregnant, resulting in fewer teens having abortions. This should be encouraging and should confirm that it is never too late for change and improvement. If you suspect your child might be sexually active, ask him or her. Empower your child to take responsibility for his or her actions. If you need further confirmation or if the child admits to it, then take him or her to the doctor to be tested and examined. Talk about preventative measures, and talk about contraceptives. Please do not think that threatening or punishing children will prevent them from engaging in these activities. If all else fails and you are unsure of how to handle the situation, reach out for support. You can talk to your child's guidance counselors, physician or teachers, to members of a church or to other family members. There are many resources available within the community for help.
www.vahealth.org/teenpregnancyprevention Planned Parenthood website for teens: www.teenwire.com Or call 1-800-533-4148 |
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