It is important for parents to talk to their teens about sex, STIs*, tobacco, alcohol and drugs. Teens want to make their own decisions, but their parents and peers also influence them. Studies show that young people whose parents talk to them about sex and other topics are less likely to engage in risky behaviors. Here are some facts and advice to help you become more knowledgeable and more comfortable when speaking with your teen.
*Note: The term sexually transmitted infections (STIs) refers to any infection that can be spread through sexual contact. These infections are often referred to as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The terms STI and STD have the same meaning.
Be aware of these facts about young people:
- In Anne Arundel County, teens ages 19 and under gave birth to 144 babies in 2023. Pregnant teens and their unborn babies have unique medical risks, including low birth weight and premature birth.
- Chlamydia and gonorrhea are STIs that can cause sterility (inability to get pregnant). In 2022 in Maryland, 29 percent of chlamydia cases and 21 percent of gonorrhea cases were in teens ages 19 and under.
- Tobacco, Alcohol and Drug Usage Among Youth
- For Maryland information visit youthonline.cdc.gov.
What your teen needs to know about sex:
- Practicing abstinence is the only sure way to prevent pregnancy and prevent getting an STI.
- There are risks of getting an STI by having vaginal, oral or anal sex, even if a condom is used.
- The use of alcohol and drugs may affect the ability to use good judgment and make decisions, including those related to sexual activity. Unwanted pregnancy, date rape, sexual violence or other physical injuries can be the result of alcohol and drug use.
How do you begin talking to your teens?
- Clearly state your values and morals, so your teens understand how you feel about drugs, alcohol, STIs, teen pregnancy and teen sex.
- Listen to your teens to find out what they know or don’t know about these topics. Remember, you have the greatest influence in your teen’s life. It is never too early to talk to your teens about drugs, STIs, teen pregnancy or teen sex.
What does the Anne Arundel County Department of Health offer for parents and teens?
The Department of Health provides STI testing (no symptoms), pregnancy testing, Depo Provera, and Emergency Contraception Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins welcome.
Exams are available for symptomatic patients by appointment only.
Call our office at 410-222-6633 to schedule an appointment.
Services are offered at the following location:
- Glen Burnie Health Center
416 A Street S.W.
Glen Burnie, MD 21061
410-222-6633
Health educators and medical staff are available to answer questions about teen health. You can call the following programs:
- Alcohol and Drug Prevention Services, 410-222-6724
Provides information about alcohol and drug prevention. Referrals for treatment are available. Health educators are available to speak to groups of parents, teens and community members for free. Speakers may be requested. - HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infections Prevention and Care Program, 410-222-7382
Provides free and anonymous HIV and STI counseling and testing located throughout the County. - Immunizations Program
Provides recommended immunizations. Parental consent is required. Please call the Glen Burnie Health Center, 410-222-6633, Magothy Health Center, 410-222-2752, or Parole Health Center, 410-222-7247 for more information.
Parents can get more information at the following websites:
Teens Sexual Health
- Get the Facts About Sexual Health
- HealthlyChildren.Org: Sponsored by the American Academy of Pediatrics, this website provides a wide-range of sexuality and dating resources for parents of adolescents
- American Sexual Health Association: This association provides a wealth of resources on sexual health for both men and women, and specific resources directed at parents
- Center for Young Women’s Health and Young Men’s Health: These websites provide information targeted at parents of adolescents, including guides on how to talk to teens about sexuality and contraceptives
- Teen Pregnancy: The Importance of Prevention, CDC
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Raising Healthy Kids
Smoking, Alcohol and Drug Use Prevention
Health Care for Families and Youth
- Anne Arundel County Network of Care
- Crisis Response Warmline: 410-768-5522
- Findhelp
- Health Care and Insurance Access
- Maryland Health Connection
- Trevor Project: Visit www.thetrevorproject.org/, or text or call 866-488-7386 to receive crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for LGBT young people.