SAFE(R) SEX
Discussions surrounding contraception should also take a different prose. Many students understand generally that contraception includes methods of avoiding unintended pregnancy. Accordingly, many curriculums focus on continuing knowledge already known rather than meeting students where they are. Rather than this tired approach, like pizza, our conversations can start with understanding where students stand in their own sexual individuality and activity.
Survey
A survey may be an anonymous method of understanding exactly where students fall on the sexual activity spectrum. If students are sexually active, it would seem illogical to teach that abstinence is the only absolute method for preventing unintended pregnancy.
A different approach
Presenting students with comprehensive information that details all contraceptive methods reasonably available will offer students the requisite knowledge to intersect choice with their unique desires. Each student can then make well-informed decisions without being in an all-or-nothing environment.
Teaching students to understand probabilities associated with perfect use and typical use failure rates will encourage students to weigh the statistics of options in a more scientific and risk-measure manner.
The teaching and learning environment presents a unique environment where open and active discussions can be fostered with student stakeholders. Students can learn only through teachers who are willing to teach. Teaching can only occur when the administrative body (school board) enables teaching through funding. Funding requires a need, yet in Alaska, the need seems to be less than a priority.
As discussed at the graduate level, no single contraceptive method is ideal for everyone. Many individuals may weigh their decision to use a contraceptive method based on its effectiveness, safety, accessibility, cost, acceptability to one’s self and one’s partner, non-reproductive benefits, and reversibility if applicable.
A variety of contraceptive techniques exist, including specific techniques, medications, and devices to mitigate the risk of unintended pregnancy.
Reasons Students Report Not Using Contraceptive Techniques
Interestingly, research has been performed to understand the individual choice to not use contraceptive methods to mitigate unintended pregnancy. They include attitudinal objections, lack of sufficient knowledge about their use, lack of planning or preparation to become sexually active, and unavailability.
Understanding that a variety of objections exist for the use of hormone-based contraceptives as well as internal medical devices and barrier devices presents educators with the opportunity to engage students concerning natural family planning. Interestingly, this method also accounts for 99% effectiveness in a perfect use case, much similar and in some cases greater, than other contraceptive devices and techniques. Student’s could be encouraged to consider:
- The importance of children in their lifetime.
- The responsible party for decision-making and behaviors related to contraception. This includes initiating conversations about birth control, control method, appointment setting, and payment for contraception.
- How conflicts surrounding contraceptive issues should be negotiated and resolved so that responsibility is shared between the parties.
- How unintended pregnancy can alter the course of the future for both parties, if applicable.