As the school year begins, parents of eighth graders in my district receive the curriculum outline for reproductive health education, which heavily emphasizes abstinence. A quick glance reveals a plethora of classes focused on abstaining from sex: “Not Everyone’s Having Sex,” “Deciding Not to Have Sex,” and “Saying No to Having Sex”—each a separate lesson.
While I appreciate the inclusion of two classes on safer practices and using protection, my frustration mounts when I see the class titled “Impact of Pregnancy,” followed by “Adoption and Safe Delivery.” I find myself searching the outline for any mention of another option—let’s say the one that doesn’t revolve around giving birth. And then it hits me.
Despite abortion being a safe and legal choice in the United States, conservative lawmakers in many states have imposed stringent regulations that stifle even the mention of it in educational settings. It feels as though discussing abortion is akin to discussing taboo subjects like religion—off-limits and treated as if they are inappropriate topics rather than essential aspects of health care. This tendency to avoid the subject is reminiscent of how history is sometimes sanitized in schools—ignoring the realities of past injustices, such as genocide and slavery.
The underlying message is clear: some health care options are so contentious that they can’t even be acknowledged. This silence can have a profound negative impact on young people’s self-esteem and understanding of their bodies. Research shows that approximately one in three cisgender women will have an abortion in their lifetime, meaning some of our children or their friends will face this reality.
When we fail to openly discuss the term “abortion” in a class focused on reproductive health, we contribute to a culture that shames individuals for their choices and bodies. For further insights into related topics, you can explore this informative post about home insemination kits or check out the resources available on pregnancy from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.
Conclusion
In summary, it’s crucial to include discussions about abortion in sex education. Silence around this topic only perpetuates stigma and misinformation, leaving young people uninformed about their options and bodies.