IMPROVING ADOLESCENT SEXUAL-BEHAVIOR - A TOOL FOR BETTER FERTILITY OUTCOME AND SAFE MOTHERHOOD

The consequences of increased adolescent sexuality worldwide include: an increased rate of adolescent pregnancies and abortions; a high prev alence of sexually transmitted diseases; and a significant number of p sychosocial problems. Improvement of adolescent sexual behavior should be one of the primary goals of the 21st century. This includes develo pment of new contraception techniques, providing protection from sexua lly transmitted diseases, improvement of contraception compliance and the correct use of mass media. As adolescents seek advice on sexual ma tters, it is our responsibility to provide them with accurate consulta tion as well as free family planning services in well organized adoles cent units, where they may be counselled on the prevention of unwanted pregnancy, and sexually transmitted diseases. This will assist in a b etter fertility outcome and a safe motherhood. (C) 1997 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics.