Do you have children ages 15 to 24? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says young people in this age bracket account for nearly half of all new sexually transmitted infections in the U.S. This highlights the importance of open communication between parents and teens.
Health experts recommend that parents have open conversations with teens about relationships, boundaries, and sexual health. Instead of using fear or judgment, parents can ask their children about their feelings, relationships, and values.
Some parents worry that these discussions may encourage sexual activity. However, experts say honest conversations give teens reliable information and help them make responsible decisions. In fact, many young people already encounter sexual health topics through friends or social media.
Experts also encourage families to talk about consent, contraception, healthy boundaries, and STI testing. Allie Mazur, founder of Beyond Herpes, aims to help teens better understand these important aspects of sexual health.
“I think that’s a huge misconception is that condoms prevent STIs and STDs. They can still happen with them. Oral herpes is cold sores, and that’s herpes type one typically. That can very easily spread to the genital area via other forms of sexual encounters,” she said via KOAT Action News.
Why Trust Matters in These Conversations
Parents can build trust by listening without judgment and sharing personal experiences. They can also reassure teens that asking for help is nothing to be ashamed of.
Mazur said her personal experience motivated her to remind others that they are not alone.
“It doesn’t necessarily mean you were promiscuous,” Mazur said. “You have resources. You have people who care and clinics.”
Teens can also speak with a healthcare provider about their sexual health. They can also find confidential STI testing that is free or available at a low cost in their community.
