Sex Education

What's Involved in Sex Education?

Most sex education classes are similar in scope. They usually involve learning the basics of human sexuality and reproduction, how a baby grows and the birth experience. You might have to watch a video of someone giving birth.

Other topics include sexually transmitted diseases, what they are, how they are treated and how to prevent them. Contraception or ways to prevent pregnancy are usually discussed as well, but this may vary depending on where you go to school.

Many American schools have abstinence-only sex education programs in which students learn the basics but are encouraged not to have sex until they are married. These classes often leave out information about contraception.

Surviving Sex Ed

Sex education classes can be kind of embarrassing. You're talking about (or listening to talk about) very intimate things, things you've maybe never thought about before or are scared of or worried about.

There will probably be a lot of nervous laughter some days in your sex education class. Some of the guys might crack jokes about the subject matter. While it's OK to try to break the tension of a nerve-wracking experience, sex education is a very serious topic.

All teens need to know about the basics of how a person becomes pregnant and how sexually transmitted diseases are spread. Even if you aren't planning to have sex anytime soon, this information is valuable.

And if you're already having sex, or you're feeling the effects of young love or lust might soon drive you to want to have sex, it is essential that you know this information and do all you can to protect yourself.

Talking to Your Parents about Sex

Sex education shouldn't end in the classroom. Your parents, horrifying as it may sound, can actually provide you with a lot of good information, and you should talk to them about sex if you feel comfortable doing so.

Most people your parents' age probably have dark memories of getting "the talk," when their mother or father sat down with them in their bedroom and tried to explain the basics of sex to them.

You were probably exposed to sex through movies and television a lot earlier than your parents were, so you probably don't need "the talk." But that doesn't mean there's nothing your parents can share with you about sex.

Your parents can tell you the stories of when and why they first had sex, which might give you a better idea of when you feel like you're ready. Talk to your parents if you're feeling pressure from your boyfriend or girlfriend.

Most importantly, if you're already having sex or are planning to start and need birth control or condoms, talk to your parents about that too. Yes, your parents may be angry or disappointed to learn that you are already having sex, especially if they did not start so young, but ultimately they will want you to be protected and should help you get what you need.

If you're afraid to talk to your parents, talk with a school nurse or guidance counselor. They should either be able to help you get what you need or give you advice on talking to your parents.

Sex Education Online

If you don't want to talk to an adult at all but have questions about your body, there are some good sex education sites on the web. These sites will give you open and honest information about sex education, helping you make informed decisions.

Here are a few sites to get you started:

• Teen Source
• Sex, Etc.
• I Wanna Know
• Teen Wire

Remember that sex education is very important, not just as a teenager, but for the rest of your life. Get informed before you make any decisions about sexual relationships, if possible, and remember there are adults who you can talk to and who will answer your questions without being judgmental.