Eighty-nine percent of American parents think they can influence when their kids have sex by talking about it, but 39 percent feel their own discomfort is an obstacle, according to a study in Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health. But why is it that we find sex an especially uncomfortable topic when our families are involved? Many of us first learn that sex is a taboo subject from our parents, either directly, through their use of euphemisms for sexual acts and body parts, or through their complete silence on the matter, says Elizabeth Jeglic, a licensed psychologist and professor of psychology at John Jay College in New York. Joye Swan, chair of the department of psychology and social sciences at Woodbury University in California. It can also be weird to think of our family members as sexual beings for the same reason it was weird to see our teachers outside of school.

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Starting the conversation
Many young people are uncomfortable with the idea of asking their parents for advice on sexual topics, leading them to seek information elsewhere. Although these methods of learning may feel less awkward, they often offer sensationalized or inaccurate information and can leave one feeling more confused than enlightened. Although talking about sex with your parent can be uncomfortable, remember that your parent is there to help you through this process. Parents serve as an important and trusted resource for information and can be of great use in helping you make smart decisions about sex and relationships. In fact, research shows that parents want to have conversations about sex and sexuality with their children. Talking to your parents about sex can be nerve-wracking and awkward, but remember that your parents may be nervous as well. This is why it is a good idea to have some topics or specific questions in mind before having this conversation with your parent. Think about your goals for the conversation: for example, do you want them to teach you basic sexual health information? Do you want them to share their expectations and values with you? Or perhaps, you may simply want to tell them that you are, or are thinking about becoming, sexually active.
INTRODUCTION
You probably think that talking to your parents about sex is impossible. The truth is that most parents want to help their kids make smart decisions about sex. If you think your parents are nervous about raising the issue, you're probably right.
No one is ever excited to say, "Hey, Mom and Dad! I think I'm ready to have sex. Can we talk about it? They might have a hard time hearing that their baby is growing up, and you might want to crawl under a rock and die. But as awkward as you may feel, it's an important conversation to have that can help you stay safe and healthy, and informed. Even though you might feel like you're disappointing your parents, ultimately, knowing you are being responsible can go a long way in helping them trust you more. We talked to Jessica Sheets Pika, director of communications at the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy , about how to talk to your parents about sex. Here's everything you need to know before you have "the talk", from how to make it less awkward to whether you need their consent to access birth control. Whether you want to ask your parents about going on the Pill or you're interested in considering an IUD, a little research can go a long way toward showing your parents that you take your health seriously, and you're mature enough to handle the responsibility of being sexually active. Here are some resources you can trust, according to Sheets Pika:.