Sexual and reproductive health education is a cornerstone of public health and plays a crucial role in reducing unplanned pregnancies, preventing the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and empowering individuals to build healthy, respectful relationships, among other benefits.
Even so, sexual and reproductive health education faces harsh criticism, which in turn has led to inconsistent implementation across different regions throughout the country. This can be harmful and lead to gaps in knowledge for teens and young adults at key stages in their lives.
Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino Counties (PPOSBC) is committed to increasing access to comprehensive sexual health education to help our communities live healthy, happy, empowered lives. Our expert Health Educators deliver sexual and reproductive health information through a variety of age-appropriate and medically accurate curricula.
In the field, our Health Educators ask students to write down questions surrounding sexual and reproductive health. The questions asked prove the need for the education that your local Planned Parenthood provides.
Reducing Unplanned Pregnancies
“Can a girl get pregnet without a partner?” Question submitted by a middle-school student in Orange County.
Comprehensive sexual health education has been shown to be effective in reducing unplanned pregnancies among teens and young adults.
A study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health found that teens who received comprehensive sexual education were 50% less likely to experience an unplanned pregnancy compared to those who received abstinence-only education or no sexual education at all. Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a 29% decline in the teen birth rate from 2010 to 2017, attributing this decrease in part to improved sexual health education programs.
Preventing the Spread of Sexually Transmitted Infections
Spanish: “Por que los ETS son dañinos en nuestro cuerpo?” English: “Why are sexually transmitted infections bad for our body?” Question submitted by a
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can cause serious health problems, like infertility, chronic pain, and a higher chance of getting HIV. Learning about safe sex, getting regular tests, and talking openly with partners is very important to help stop the spread of STIs.
Research published in Sexually Transmitted Diseases shows that students who get a full education about sexual health are more likely to use condoms and other forms of birth control, which greatly reduces their risk of getting STIs. The CDC agrees, noting comprehensive sexual education leads to safer sexual behaviors and reduces STIs among teenagers.
Empowering Healthy Relationships
“How can you protect someone from sexual assault?” Question submitted by a middle-school student in San Bernardino County.
Sexual health education goes beyond the mechanics of sex; it encompasses the development of healthy, respectful relationships. This includes teaching communication skills, consent, and the importance of mutual respect and understanding.
A study in the Journal of School Health showed that students who participated in comprehensive sexual health programs reported better communication with partners and a clearer understanding of consent and boundaries. These skills are crucial in preventing sexual violence and fostering respectful, fulfilling relationships.
Making a Difference
The Health Educators at Planned Parenthood work diligently to foster safe spaces for open, honest conversations about sexual and reproductive health education. By equipping individuals with knowledge about contraception, STI prevention, and healthy relationship practices, they are empowering individuals to make informed decisions and build respectful, fulfilling relationships.
Investment in and support for comprehensive sexual health education is a vital step toward a healthier, more informed society. By continuing to advocate for and implement these programs, we can create a future where individuals are empowered to take control of their sexual health and well-being.
To find out about your local Planned Parenthood’s sex education programs, visit BetterThanSexEd.org.
To show your support for Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino’s sex education programs, you can make a donation here.
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