New CDC Data Shows That More Teens Are Using Effective Contraception – but That More Young People Need Access

NEW YORK–(ENEWSPF)–May 7, 2012. Data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) includes a number of positive trends that have contributed to a 44 percent decline in the teen birthrate since 1990. The use of the most effective birth control methods is up among all groups and a growing number of teens are waiting until they are older to become sexually active. The proportion of teens who have never had sex does not differ based on race or ethnicity. However, the new data, which is based on the National Survey of Family Growth and reported in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, also shows that African-American and Latino teens are less likely than white teens to use highly effective birth control methods such as the IUD, pill, patch, ring, or shot. African-American and Latino youth are also more likely than whites to use no method of contraception.

“This data shows that teens are using contraception, but more young people need access to education and services.” said Leslie Kantor, vice president of Education for Planned Parenthood Federation of America. “We know from years of research that the most effective approach to reducing teen pregnancy is a comprehensive approach that includes high-quality sex education, encouraging parents to talk to their children about sex, and ensuring access to health care services. The increase in the use of the most effective contraceptive methods and in dual use of birth control and condoms has made a real difference. However, we need to do a much better job at ensuring that all young people have access to the education and services they need, and we must redouble our efforts to reduce the significant disparities that exist.”

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Planned Parenthood is the nation’s leading sexual and reproductive health care provider and advocate. We believe that everyone has the right to choose when or whether to have a child, and that every child should be wanted and loved. Planned Parenthood affiliates operate nearly 800 health centers nationwide, providing medical services and sexuality education for millions of women, men, and teenagers each year. We also work with allies worldwide to ensure that all women and men have the right and the means to meet their sexual and reproductive health care needs.

Source: http://www.plannedparenthood.org