Experts have advised parents to discuss sexual health and contraception with their teenagers ahead of Christmas and the New Year to prevent unwanted pregnancies.

The call follows a recent poll from the Time to Talk campaign, which found that young people are feeling under increased pressure to have sex.

Teenage pregnancy rates peak in December and January, a trend that is exacerbated by the fact that 68 per cent of young people are more likely to drink alcohol - and therefore experience impaired judgement - during the festive season.

However, poll figures show that many parents are oblivious to their youngsters' activities, with two thirds assuming that their own kids do not have sex.

Maggie Pointing, service manager for Southampton's sexual health services, advised: "Parents should be open with their teenage children and be ready to discuss sexual activity. This will help to ensure young people are getting the best advice on staying safe this Christmas."

Ms Pointing also emphasised that teenagers who are sexually active should get the "best advice" to help them avoid unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections and to get emergency contraception if necessary.

According to sexual health charity Brook, the UK has the highest rate of teenage births in western Europe. Research suggests that there are three main factors involved - teenagers' low expectations for their own future, ignorance and mixed messages about sex.


© Adfero Ltd

More Essential News