Abstinence-only education leaves teenagers unprotected

The word “abstinence” refers to the practice of restraining oneself from indulging in something, often used in reference to the practice of abstaining from sex. Across many states, abstinence makes up a large portion of a student’s sexual education (sex-ed), often to the point of neglect for other topics. Abstinence-only education results in students being ignorant of protection, consent, and even sexual identities and gender.

One of the main purposes of sex-ed is to inform students of ways to protect against pregnancy occurring as a result of sex. Students are often shown condoms — as well as how to use them — and informed about the existence of hormonal birth control, such as pills and implants. While no birth control is 100% effective, knowledge of it can drastically reduce the chances of pregnancy happening. Comparatively, if a person who was educated on an abstinence-only basis were to engage in sex without protection, pregnancy is much more likely. Condoms also prevent the transmission of STI’s, or sexually-transmitted infections, to a much higher degree than no condom.

Additionally, many sex-ed courses spend some time focusing on the importance of consent when having intercourse. The common thought on consent has changed some in the past couple of years. For one, there is a greater emphasis on only engaging in sex with a “verbal, enthusiastic ‘yes’” rather than relying on consent having to be withdrawn (“no means no”). These small variations can result in large differences when a person eventually has sex.

Also, many modern sex-ed classes include information about sexual orientations and gender identities. According to Gallup, 7.1% of adults identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender. With the percentage of people identifying as LGBT increasing, making more readily available information is important. Giving teenagers and young students the information to possibly understand themselves better is largely a positive. With a better understanding of non-cisgender/heterosexual identities, it is also possible that there would be less conflict between students.

Some believe that sex-ed encourages students to have sex, but on average, sex-ed other than abstinence results in a decrease in teen pregnancy. Mississippi has the highest rate of teen STI’s and pregnancy, despite the emphasis on abstinence in the state’s sex-ed program.

With all the positives that are associated with a well-rounded sexual-education, making the course mandatory in schools would only give benefits to students.