Sex habits
Wednesday 27 February 2008
NHS Choices is looking at the reasons why some teenagers are still not protecting themselves during sex. Find out more.
It figures
NHS Choices is a government funded campaign looking at the sexual habits of teenagers. In 2007, NHS Choices spoke to 1600 13-17 year olds about relationships and sex.
The results showed that 42 per cent of British teens think that people who don't use condoms are irresponsible, four out of ten say it’s too risky not to, and only 2.5 per cent think it’s not cool to use condoms.
So it sounds like you’re all a pretty sensible bunch! But despite these results, many teenagers are still not bothering to use protection when having sex.
Top ten excuses
The survey revealed that drink, drugs and late nights are among the reasons why teenagers are not using condoms.
Here's a rundown of the top 10 excuses:
- Don't think about the consequences of getting pregnant or catching STIs (50%)
- It's not available when needed i.e. late night after a party (48%)
- Caught in the moment (46%)
- Boyfriend/girlfriend not wanting to use a condom (38%)
- I was drinking/getting high 34%
- Too embarrassed to suggest using one a condom (32)%
- I/my girlfriend is on the pill (26%)
- It ruins the mood (26%)
- It's too expensive (13%)
- Don't want to be thought of as 'easy' (13%)
Do you agree with these excuses? Send us an email with your thoughts.
Consequences
By ignoring the consequences of having unprotected sex, you run the risk of having an unplanned pregnancy or catching sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Petra Boynton, spokesperson for NHS Choices said, “Almost 50 per cent of girls who get pregnant under 18 have an abortion and three out of four teenage mothers say their pregnancies are unplanned. This is too important to take risks. Getting contraception sorted to prevent pregnancy and always using a condom to avoid STIs is a vital part of looking after yourself.”
She adds, “Respect yourself and your partner. Taking control now will mean fewer regrets after the event!”
Be informed
If you're under 18 and need advice about relationships, sex or contraception, phone 0800 28 29 30 for a confidential chat (calls are free from landlines). Textphone (for people with hearing impairments) 0800 328 1651.
Or visit NHS Choices, where you can find answers to questions you may be too embarrassed to ask, advice on contraception and sexually transmitted infections and details of where to find your local contraceptive or STI clinic.
You can also find out all you need2know about condoms in the n2k article.
