Talking to your teen about sex is something no parent looks forward to, and some even avoid it entirely. However, research on parenting shows the importance of having an open and honest conservation with your teen about sex.
The ‘sex talk’ should be approached with patience, sensitivity and understanding, regardless of your child’s sexual orientation, even if you feel that talking to your lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) teen about the ‘Birds and the Bees’ is more of a challenge.
LGB teens will have many of the same experiences as heterosexual teens when it comes to the trials and tribulations of sexual and romantic relationships. They will date, fall in love, get their heart broken, probably break some hearts and hopefully, eventually learn about what they’re looking for in a partner.
However, there will be some differences in their romantic and sex lives, and it’s common for parents to be unsure about how to approach these differences.
It is important to do your research before approaching your LGB teen. There are many useful and informative online sites and forums that will that will equip you with the information you need to talk to your teen about sex. Chatting to other parents with LGB teens, both online and in your own community will give you helpful tips before talking to your own child.
Keeping an open-mind is important when talking to your teen about sex, no matter what their sexual orientation. It may turn out that they’re more sexually advanced than you thought or feel comfortable with. Don’t react in anger or shock but be patient and listen to what they have to say.
It is vital that you stress the importance of practicing safe sex to your teen. It is common for parents of LGB teens to be unsure of how to approach this topic. While safe sex is crucial, regardless of sexual orientation, gay men are at higher risk for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) than men who have sex with only women and it’s very important that a condom is always used during sex.
Don’t avoid discussing pregnancy prevention, as young men who identify as gay or bisexual men have sexual contact with women as well.
While sexual activity between women carry less risk of acquiring STDs, this doesn’t mean there is no risk at all and it’s important your teen understands the risks involved in every sexual encounter.
It may be helpful to sit down with your teen to look at websites or other resources that offer information on safe sex and avoiding sexually transmitted diseases.
