The researchers also found that the earlier an individual started having sex, the less likely they were to use contraception, and the longer it took for them to start using birth control. Specifically, for individuals who had sex at age 15 or later, more than 80% reported using contraception during their first sexual event. In contrast, among those who reported sex at or before age 12, only 52% reported using contraception at first, and it took five years for persons in this group to start using contraception at levels equivalent to those who delayed sex until age 15 or later.

While these results suggest that sexual activity among very young adolescents is probably pretty rare, it is important to keep in mind that this study only inquired about one type of sexual activity (i.e., vaginal intercourse). The numbers would likely be a bit higher had the researchers also inquired about oral sex, anal sex, and same-sex activity. I find it troubling that "sex" is so often defined in very narrow terms in research on adolescents because it substantially limits our knowledge and makes it impossible to determine adolescents' sexual health needs. In addition, the researchers focused solely on contraception use, which is important, but should not be the only thing we consider. We also need to be looking at condom and barrier use because sexually transmitted infections are a major public health concern for teenagers.

Although younger adolescents may not be as sexually active as the public perceives them to be, it is important to recognize that a number of these kids are indeed having sex and are not taking steps to protect themselves and their partners, which is yet another reason parents and schools must start providing more (not less) in the way of sex education.

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[1] Finer, L. B., & Philbin, J. M. (in press). Sexual initiation, contraceptive use, and pregnancy among young adolescents. Pediatrics.

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