Sexual health education still remains a vital component of cutting teenage pregnancies. This is according to medical wellness experts from NHS Fife, who have released a statement extolling the benefits that sex education provide to the overall wellbeing of Scottish young people.
The statement has been released following a publication of figures which demonstrates the number of underage girls being given contraceptive implants is at an all-time high, and this record has been reached at taxpayers’ expense on the NHS. It has been revealed that, over a period of two years, a total of 121 Fife youngsters under the age of consent were given implants at NHS hospitals and clinics throughout the region.
According to last year’s teenage pregnancy figures, NHS Fife leads the way in the rates for under-16s and under-18s when looking across health board areas rather than councils. In the under-16s group, there were 9.2 pregnancies per 1,000 in Fife, and this rose dramatically to 47.7 per 1,000 among the under-18s. For Dr Edward Coyle, director of public health with NHS Fife, ‘NHS Fife continues to work closely with colleagues in Fife Council and other agencies to address the issue of teenage pregnancies in Fife.’
He explained, ‘An important aspect of our approach is the delivery of high-quality relationships and sexual health education, which emphasises the importance of developing healthy relationships. Fife’s Sexual Health Strategy Group is taking forward a specific programme which encourages young people to think about whether they are ready to embark on a sexual relationship. Parents and carers have a key role in guiding young people and discussing the risks and consequences of relationship choices. It is the case early sexual activity is often regretted.’
He added: ‘Dedicated young persons’ services are available to all young people in Fife…which provide information and support to young people to make informed choices regarding their relationships. In situations where treatment is required relating to contraception or sexual health, young people are referred into sexual health services. Young people are seen by trained NHS Fife staff who understand child protection issues.’ He noted that NHS Fife staff ensure young people ‘are fully able to consent and understand the treatment they are being given. Staff would always encourage young people to discuss their situation with parents or carers.’
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