Raising children

How to talk to your teen about sexual health so they’ll listen

Amelia Jones
How to talk to your teen about sexual health so they’ll listen

When discussing discipline and behavior with their children, experts suggest that parents approach the conversations in a thoughtful and constructive manner.

Parents play a crucial role in guiding their teenagers through discussions about sexual health in a non-judgmental and supportive manner. Here are some tips for initiating these conversations:

  1. Open Dialogue: Create an environment where your teenager feels comfortable discussing sexual health topics openly. Encourage them to ask questions and express their concerns without fear of judgment.
  2. Active Listening: Listen attentively to your teenager’s thoughts, questions, and feelings about sexual health. Validate their experiences and emotions, and avoid interrupting or dismissing their perspectives.
  3. Respectful Approach: Approach discussions with respect for your teenager’s autonomy and privacy. Avoid prying or invasive questions and maintain confidentiality when appropriate.
  4. Provide Accurate Information: Offer factual and age-appropriate information about sexual health, including topics like contraception, STIs, consent, and healthy relationships. Correct any misconceptions or misinformation they may have encountered online.
  5. Emphasize Safety: Stress the importance of safety and responsible decision-making in sexual encounters. Discuss strategies for protecting themselves from risks such as unplanned pregnancy, STIs, and coercion.
  6. Non-judgmental Attitude: Refrain from passing judgment or expressing disapproval regarding your teenager’s sexual experiences or curiosity. Instead, focus on providing guidance and support without moralizing.
  7. Use Teachable Moments: Take advantage of natural opportunities, such as news stories, movies, or real-life events, to initiate conversations about sexual health. Use these teachable moments to discuss relevant issues in a timely and relatable context.
  8. Offer Resources: Provide your teenager with reliable resources and information sources about sexual health, including reputable websites, books, and educational materials. Encourage them to seek out accurate information and support when needed.
  9. Be Patient and Understanding: Understand that discussing sexual health can be awkward or uncomfortable for both parents and teenagers. Be patient, empathetic, and willing to revisit conversations as needed to address ongoing concerns or questions.
  10. Seek Professional Support if Needed: If you feel unsure or overwhelmed about discussing certain topics, consider seeking guidance from a healthcare provider, counselor, or sex education specialist. They can offer additional support and resources tailored to your teenager’s needs.

By approaching discussions about sexual health with sensitivity, openness, and respect, parents can help empower their teenagers to make informed decisions and navigate their sexual development with confidence and resilience.

Starting conversations about sexual health with teenagers can be daunting for parents, but it’s essential for their well-being and safety. Here are some tips to help parents initiate these discussions in a supportive and non-judgmental way:

  1. Stay Open-Minded: Create a safe space where your teenager feels comfortable discussing sexual health topics without fear of judgment. Avoid lecturing or criticizing them and listen to their concerns with an open mind.
  2. Let Them Teach You: Acknowledge that teenagers are navigating new challenges like sexting and deepfakes. Allow them to educate you on these issues, which empowers them and fosters open communication.
  3. Don’t Scare Them: Instead of focusing on worst-case scenarios, discuss practical steps they can take to address challenges like sexual harassment or STIs. Frame sex education in a positive light to empower them to make informed decisions.
  4. Build a Good Relationship: Cultivate a strong relationship with your teenager from a young age, so they feel comfortable coming to you with questions or concerns. Start conversations about boundaries, consent, and respectful relationships early on.
  5. Don’t Schedule a Time to Chat: Utilize everyday situations like car rides or walks to initiate conversations about sexual health. This approach can make discussions feel less confrontational and more natural.
  6. Admit That It’s Awkward: Acknowledge the awkwardness of discussing sexual health and reassure your teenager that it’s okay to feel embarrassed or uncertain. Let them know that you’re willing to find answers together.

Additionally, here are some professional services and resources that teens can access for support and information:

  • Local Sexual Health Clinics: These clinics offer services such as contraception, STI checks, and abortion referrals. Teens can find their nearest clinic through the NHS website.
  • Brook: A sexual health service for people under 25, offering clinics across the UK.
  • Luna: A teen wellbeing app where teenagers can ask anonymous questions and receive medically-backed responses. It also provides information tailored to adolescents and allows users to track their periods, mood, skin, and sleep.
  • Fumble: A digital sex-ed resource aimed at making sexual health education inclusive and accessible for all genders, sexualities, and backgrounds. It provides reliable information and support on various sexual health topics.

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