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Chapter One: Teens and Sexual Activity

films create the impression that a “real” romantic relationship should involve sex right away. Kids often hear their friends brag about all the sexual adventures they are having. It can make kids who are not sexually active feel like freaks. But when it comes to teens and sex, movies and rumors are not the whole story. A 2011 study found that among teenagers aged 15 to 17, more than 60 percent of girls and more than 50 percent of boys had never had any form of sexual contact with someone of the opposite sex. When the researchers nar- rowed the question to ask about sexual intercourse, the numbers dropped even Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. Because there is so much stress involved in a pregnancy, childbirth, and the baby’s first year, relationships are just as likely to suffer as they are to get better. “If you really love me, you’ll have sex with me.” No way. There are lots of ways to express love—sex is just one of them. Myths about Sex and Pregnancy “You can’t get pregnant the first time you have sex.” This is completely untrue. You can get pregnant any time you have intercourse. “You can’t get pregnant if you are having your period.” Also untrue—you are less likely to get pregnant, but it is still possible. “It’s okay to reuse condoms, or to use plastic wrap instead.” Forget it—both are highly likely to leak. This makes them ineffective contraception. “Mountain Dew is a good contraceptive because it kills sperm.” This is not true at all! This also applies to Coke, Pepsi, and any other beverage. The ingredients in soda do not kill sperm. “If I get pregnant, my boyfriend will love me more.”