The 'Sex Talk' Often Comes Too Late

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents educate their children about sexuality beginning early in life. According to the study, “Timing of Parent and Child Communication About Sexuality Relative to Children’s Sexual Behaviors,” published in the January issue of Pediatrics (appearing online December 7), many of these discussions are occurring after adolescents have already passed key sexual milestones. In a series of surveys with 141 parents and their teen-aged children, researchers found more than 40 percent of children had sexual intercourse before any discussion with their parents about sexually transmitted disease symptoms, condom use, choosing birth control, or what to do if a partner refuses a condom. Researchers suggest pediatricians encourage parents to have more timely communication with their children about important sex-related topics. Suggestions for specific topics that should be covered and advice on how to discuss them would help guide parents who don’t know what to say. Pediatricians also can address these issues in one-on-one conversations with adolescents in their office.