Brasilia, Brazil, Sep 6, 2008 / 17:02 pm
A new study has revealed that 22 percent of Brazilian teens aged 13 to 16 have already had sexual relations and frequently use the morning after pill to avoid pregnancy.
According to local media reports, some 6,300 students from 272 schools were interviewed for the study.
The percentage of pregnancies was high among those polled. Out of those who had already had sexual relations 42.3 percent had already gotten a girl pregnant in the case of the boys or had become pregnant in the case of the girls.
Psychiatrist Thiago Fidalgo of the Federal University of Sao Paulo said the study confirms the data from previous studies about the early sexual behavior of teens.
He said the study is a wake-up call to parents to spend more time discussing sexual matters with their children.
Subscribe to our daily newsletter
At Catholic News Agency, our team is committed to reporting the truth with courage, integrity, and fidelity to our faith. We provide news about the Church and the world, as seen through the teachings of the Catholic Church. When you subscribe to the CNA UPDATE, we'll send you a daily email with links to the news you need and, occasionally, breaking news.
As part of this free service you may receive occasional offers from us at EWTN News and EWTN. We won't rent or sell your information, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Click hereOur mission is the truth. Join us!
Your monthly donation will help our team continue reporting the truth, with fairness, integrity, and fidelity to Jesus Christ and his Church.
Donate to CNA