Sex Education Discussion

A topic that I believe people take for granted for one reason or another, is sex education. If I were able to create a program I would base it on that. I believe that if we talk about it and make it less uncomfortable, then people will be able to make better decisions.

At the primary level it would focus on kids and teens. Teach them about anatomy, sexually-transmitted infections (STIs), pregnancy prevention, and the use of contraception and condoms, before they become sexually active. Teach them about consent and bodily autonomy from an early age. How to deal with abuse and how to know when it’s ok. I think it’s important to teach the young to respect their bodies early. Young people should have access to facts and not just be taught values. Kids can learn about safer sex and contraception and still choose to practice abstinence.

Secondary would be teaching adults. Obviously, adults are often already sexually active. Maybe this is where the topics could verge on the more taboo part of sexuality. Making people feel ok to explore what makes sex enjoyable. Still, focus a bit on the same topics for young people as a reinforcement because it is amazing how more relaxed adults can become as time goes on. One example is that often, women forget the concept of “no means no” just because they are married or in a committed relationship. Remind them of the risks and consequences.

The tertiary level would be teaching the elderly and disabled. This group tends to, unfortunately, fall into sexual abuse more than others for the simple fact that they do not often feel as if they have a voice and do not speak up. In some cases, they actually can’t speak for themselves and that is much worse. It’s ok to re-educate and make them feel comfortable about bringing up the topic. After all, sex is nothing new to them. On the other hand, they weren’t taught about STI’s, HIV/AIDS or other risks of sex when they were younger. It’s good to really let them know what’s out there. They’re barely ever taught about condoms because who needs them after menopause, right? Well when we’re talking about pregnancy, sure, but they’re still very effective against diseases when used properly.