It is important for parents to talk to their kids and teens about STDs (sexually transmitted diseases). Your kids need to understand how STDs spread and how to protect themselves.
STDs (also called sexually transmitted infections, or STIs) are infections that spread from person to person during sexual activity. This includes vaginal, oral, or anal sex; using fingers ("fingering"); or any other sexual contact.
Talking to kids and teens about sex and STDs does not make it more likely that they'll have sex. Instead, if they do become sexually active, they’ll understand the risks and know how to protect themselves.
Talking about STDs and other personal subjects like sex shouldn't be one big talk at a certain age. Instead, start the conversation early. Then slowly build on it based on how much your child understands. By about 10–13 years old, most kids know what sex is and are ready to learn about STDs.
But even if your child is older and you haven't started talking about STDs, it's not too late. A delayed talk is better than no talk at all.
Good times to talk about STDs could be when:
Cover these key points when talking to your kids about STDs:
Kids and teens need to know about STDs. It's best if they get the facts from someone reliable. If you don't feel comfortable talking with your kids about STDs, make sure they can turn to someone else for accurate information. This could be a doctor, school nurse or counselor, teacher, or a trusted family member. They can also reach out to places like Planned Parenthood.
Reviewed by: Lonna P. Gordon, MD
Date Reviewed: Jan 1, 2024
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