From
Yahoo
CHICAGO - A leading group of pediatricians says teenagers need access to birth control and emergency contraception, not the abstinence-only approach to sex education favored by religious groups and
President Bush.
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The recommendations are part of the American Academy of Pediatrics' updated teen pregnancy policy.
"Even though there is great enthusiasm in some circles for abstinence-only interventions, the evidence does not support abstinence-only interventions as the best way to keep young people from unintended pregnancy," said Dr. Jonathan Klein, chairman of the academy committee that wrote the new recommendations.
Heartening news, for me certainly. I chose my daughter's pediatrician based on his views on this, insurance and shots.
More below...
Of course, the federal goverment has to have a say on the subject:
Wade Horn, assistant secretary for children and families at the U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services, said counseling only abstinence, preferably until marriage, is the best approach because it sends a clear, consistent message.
Teenagers who are sexually active should have access to contraception, but making birth control available to teens who aren't sends a contradictory message, he said.
emphasis mine
Am I the only one totally confused by the circular argument? Is Mr. Horn actually suggesting keeping kids ignorant until and unless they start fucking??? Is that our government's stance on sex education?
The article goes on to mention some stats on US teen sex/pregnancy which is embarrasing and sad all at once. I am certainly glad that the American Academy of Pediatrics has taken this stance. I only wonder how long will it be before the GOP starts a smear campaign on "liberal pediatricians".