Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology: What should be the purpose of sex education?

Adolescents have a right to information. This information should not be confusing or laced with contradictory attitudes. Whilst the risks of sexual activity, unplanned pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases, need explanation, emphasis on relationships and sharing should be encouraged. Provision of contraceptive and sex education in schools may raise ethical concerns. There is no evidence that these programmes encourage earlier sexual activity and in >Holland style="font-size: 11.0pt;> there is some evidence to the contrary.

Most teenagers, although by no means all of them, are aware of the need for contraception and assume that all sexually transmitted diseases can be treated. There seems to be inadequate emphasis on the need for barrier contraception to reduce the risks of virus infection that may cause AIDS ( HIV / AIDS) and pre-malignant conditions of the cervix (Pap Test).

Q 5. 1 Our baby has had a little vaginal bleeding. Is this worrying?
Q 5. 2 What are intersex states?
Q 5. 3 Our toddler does not seem to have a normal opening down below. What should be done?
Q 5. 4 My little girl has a vaginal discharge. What might be the cause?
Q 5. 5 What is puberty?
Q 5. 6 What is precocious puberty?
Q 5.7 Our teenage daughter's periods have not started yet. When should we seek medical advice?
Q 5. 8 Our daughter's periods are occurring infrequently. Should we be concerned?
Q 5. 9 What is adolescence?
Q 5. 10 What is acne and how can acne be treated?
Q 5. 11 Our teenage daughter seems to have more body hair than we would expect. What should be done?
Q 5. 12 Our teenage daughter's periods are so heavy that she has to be absent from school. What can we do?
Q 5. 13 How does the doctor determine the treatment of heavy periods for an adolescent?
Q 5. 14 How long should treatment of heavy periods be continued with an adolescent?
Q 5. 15 Should a D and C (cervical dilatation and curettage Q 24.12) be performed for an adolescent with period problems?
Q 5. 16 Are there any particular worries about a teen pregnancy?
Q 5. 17 What should be the purpose of sex education?
Q 5.18 My adolescent daughter is being difficult. Could she have an underlying hormone problem?
Q 5. 19 Are there any special contraceptive considerations for teenagers?
Q 5. 20 What contraceptive options are available to adolescents?
Q 5. 21 Are there any medical worries if a young teenager takes the oral contraceptive pill?
Q 5. 22 Can a teenager use emergency contraception?
Q 5. 23 Where can I obtain more information?
Q 5. 24 Could I have some child support groups and teen support groups?
Q 5. 25 Could I have some acne support groups?

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This is the personal website of David A Viniker MD FRCOG, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Whipps Cross University Hospital, London.

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