Talking to a teenager about anything can be a Herculean task under the best of circumstances.  Talking to YOUR teen about SEX in any shape, form or fashion can be an impossible chasm to cross.  However, instead of fretting over the reaction your teen will have, make some time to take the plunge and discuss sex and abstinence with him (or her).  Remember that you won’t lose anything by trying.

To talk about abstinence, you have to understand the importance of abstinence in the life and health of everyone who participates in it.  Not only is it the only method of birth control that is 100% effective, it is also the only thing that will guarantee your teen will not be exposed to STDs.

Think of it in these terms: if you never open a container, then no germs will ever get in.  That container will always remain sterile and safe.  The same is true about abstinence.  By choosing to refrain from sexual activity, your teen will ensure her (or his) physical wellbeing when it comes to sexual situations.

A teen that chooses abstinence will also guarantee that no life-altering situations (like an unexpected pregnancy) will come up.  Despite what most teens believe, if they are having sex then they should be prepared to deal with a pregnancy.  There is no full-proof method of birth control besides abstinence.  Some teens that are using birth control pills, condoms, or other methods will still become pregnant and have to deal with the repercussions.

Abstinence, at its very basic, is not having sex.  But at the heart of the issue there is much more.  Choosing to abstain from sexual activities (including “fooling around”) can be a difficult road for you teen to walk alone.  Be sure that you both understand what will be faced and build a support network (other trusted adults and peers) that will help make the choice an easier one.

Don’t wait until your child is a teen to start talking to him (or her) about his body.  The more comfortable you both are about discussing issues, the easier it will be (for both of you) to talk about abstinence.

If your child is already a teen, then it’s still not too late.  Make a date with her (or him) to be some place alone and quiet (where prying eyes and ears cannot get involved).  Be open and honest with your teen and allow them to be open and honest with you.

Abstinence is more than a form of birth control.  It is a life choice that could affect the health, future and physical well being of your teen from now until the end of her life.