Comprehensive sexual and contraceptive education for young people

• Published in: Enfermería clínica Vol. 19; no. 4; p. 221
• Main Authors: González Hernando, Carolina, Sánchez-Crespo Bolaños, José Ramón, González Hernando, Andrés
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: Spanish
• Published: Spain 01.07.2009
• Subjects: Adolescent; Child; Contraception - utilization; Female; Humans; Male; Sex Education
• ISSN: 1130-8621
• DOI: 10.1016/j.enfcli.2009.04.001

According to the National Institute of Statistics (INE) the number of unwanted pregnancies in Spain is increasing every year. This is particularly worrying as regards unwanted in young people, particularly those under 15, which increased by 76% from 2001 to 2005. The younger age when people begin sexual relationships, the increasingly liberal attitudes, a higher number of sexual partners and high risk sexual practices, expose them to very important health problems, such as unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases (STD). Adolescence is a vital phase in the personal and sexual identity process. Sexual Education is necessary in a society which seems to be well informed but on the other hand has a high proportion of ignorance and errors, which could seriously affect the emotional balance of people. Teaching to know and accept their own body, seek information or ask for help is an education that can help them to maintain healthier and satisfactory relationships. On the other hand, the increase in undesired pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV, makes this kind of education a priority. Our experience in sexual education for young people answers this need. Young people have the right to an effective sexual education. Information and comprehensive sexual education provide them with the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to take decisions in the present and future.