Ireland teenage pregnancies number fall by 64%-but STIs are on the rise
The Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) programme in schools and in youth centres plays a crucial role in informing teenagers about healthy relationships and the potential consequences of early sex.
The teenage birth rate has gradually declined since the introduction of the programme. Previous research has found that those who received RSE were more likely to use contraception at first sex which suggests that RSE in schools and youth centres has made a significant contribution to the decline.
THE NUMBER OF teenage pregnancies has fallen by 64% in 15 years, new statistics have shown.
While the number of pregnancies are down, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are on the rise among young Irish people. The study shows a 8.3% increase in STIs in teenagers in 2016 when compared to 2015 figures.
The study shows that the majority of sexually active teenagers are aware of the risk of pregnancy and use contraception to protect themselves. But condom use is much lower , which puts them at risk of STIs.
Condom is the best way to reduce STIs and wanted pregnancy. Use condom for safe sex. Contact: [email protected]
