Planned Parenthood Statement on Pediatrics Study: Beyond the “Big Talk”

Statement of Planned Parenthood Federation of America President Cecile Richards:

New York – “This study underscores what Planned Parenthood has known for years: Nothing is more powerful than frequent and supportive conversations between parents and their children in helping to keep young people safe and healthy throughout their lives.

“All too often in our society, teens are bombarded with conflicting messages about sex. This year an estimated 750,000 teens will become pregnant, and nearly four million of them will contract a sexually transmitted infection. 

“Previous studies have shown that teens who talk with their parents about sex are more likely to make responsible decisions that affect their health and well-being, including delaying sexual intercourse and practicing prevention when they eventually do become sexually active.

“At Planned Parenthood, we believe we need to set our teens up for success. It is our job as parents to give young people the information they need to make responsible decisions as adults. That’s why it is so important that parents communicate their values and talk openly and honestly with their children early and often about these sensitive topics.”