Things Every Teen Should Know About Sex

Sex is a tricky topic for most people to discuss. Parents often find it difficult to know how or when to talk to their children; and most children are uncomfortable bringing the subject up with their parents.

Teens often either think they already know it all, or are embarrassed to admit that they don’t. The result is that many teens continue to believe various myths and carry that misinformation into adulthood.

Here are some commonly believed myths, followed by an explanation of the essentials surrounding each subject.

Myth 1. Oral sex is safe because it’s not really sex.
Truth: Oral sex, anal sex, and heavy petting are all sexual contact and can result in unwanted consequences. Although you may technically still be a virgin, both oral and anal sex can cause the same sexually transmitted diseases as vaginal sex. And it is possible to become pregnant during heavy petting when there is genital contact even without penetration.

Myth 2. A woman can’t get pregnant the first time she has sex.
Truth: A woman can become pregnant at any time once she has begun having her menstrual cycle, including the first time she has intercourse. A male can make someone pregnant the first time he has sex. There are no “freebies”. Contraception is necessary every time to prevent pregnancy.

Myth 3. A woman can’t get pregnant if she has sex during her menstrual period.
Truth: Although it is less likely that she will get pregnant, it is still possible. The menstrual cycle is not always regular or predictable, especially in young teens. And even though conception is more likely to occur at certain times during the cycle, it is possible at any time. Some women also experience mild spotting or bleeding around the time of ovulation, which could be mistaken for a period, but is really a signal of peak fertility.

Myth 4. Using condoms makes sex safe from pregnancy and disease.
Truth: There is no totally safe sex. Although properly using a condom with a spermicidal cream offers the best protection, no method provides 100% protection. Diseases are transmitted when there is contact with bodily fluids. Condoms, even when used properly, may not provide complete coverage, or they may break or leak. The only way to fully guarantee safety from pregnancy and disease is not to have sex.

Myth 5. Women are emotional about sex but men aren’t.
Truth: This is one of the most widely held beliefs. The fact is that sexual contact with another person is an intimate act that involves your emotions as well as your body. This is true for both males and females. Although many people believe that men often have sex simply for the challenge, or think of sexual conquest as a game, the truth is that men have the same basic emotions as women, even though they may express them differently. It is very important, especially for young people to be sure they are ready for sex and all of the consequences.

Note: This article is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for medical guidance or counseling. Always seek advice from competent medical professionals.

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