Teens consistently report that parents (more so than their peers) most influence their decisions regarding relationships and sex. Communication is crucial for positive health outcomes when it comes to adolescent sexual behavior.

The family planning program at Oklahoma City County Health Department encourages parental involvement! We strive to help teens and young adults make responsible and educated decisions about their own sexual health.

COMMUNICATION TIPS

We understand it may be hard for parents to talk with their teens about sexual health but talking early and often can help your teens make healthy decisions regarding relationships and sex. Below are some communication tips and resources that we think you may find helpful.

PROTECT YOUR FAMILY FROM CANCER WITH THE HPV VACCINE

HPV, or the human papillomavirus, is extremely common. Some types of HPV can cause genital warts and others can cause cancer (cervical, anal, penile, vaginal, vulvar and oral). Guarding against HPV requires early prevention, before someone is exposed to the virus through sexual or intimate contact. Vaccines are recommended for both females and males at age 11, but can be given to adolescents and young adults through age 26. The HPV vaccine is recommended for preteens because it is up to three times more effective when administered at an early age and it can help prevent up to 99% of all HPV-related cancers.

If your teen hasn’t received the HPV vaccine yet, you can visit one of our clinics to get them vaccinated as soon as possible. No appointment is necessary!

For more information about the HPV vaccine visit: http://vaccinateyourfamily.org/preteens-and-teens/... or https://www.cdc.gov/hpv/parents/vaccine.html

HELPFUL INFORMATION FOR PARENTS

Thrive OKC
Teen Sexual Coercion
Preventing Teen Pregnancy
Ten Tips for Parents
Stop Bullying
Strengthening Family Connections
Having the Talks