By the end of 2001, 65% of all sexually transmitted diseases will be contracted by people under the age of twenty four. Teens have become one of the largest groups with STDs. One million girls become pregnant every year before they reach the age of 20. One reason why these statistics are so high: lack of sexual education campaigns. Thirty two states do not require sex education in school and many that do have limited education, teach only about HIV and AIDS, but not other STDs or ways to prevent pregnancy (Masland). The Institute of Medicine agrees that sexual education should be discussed freely in schools:
             Lack of open communication and information regarding sexuality and sexually transmitted diseases fosters misperceptions, and may encourage high risk behaviors...All school districts in the United States should ensure that schools provide essential STD related services, including health education. (Cothran 82)
             Sexual education programs in school could significantly lower teen pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases.
             Many types of birth control are available on the market today for teens. Sex education programs could teach teenagers about the forms of birth control. Some are easy to obtain, while others may need a doctor's appointment, which can be costly. The most common drugstore contraceptives include condoms, foams, and vaginal suppositories. Doctor obtained contraceptives include diaphragms, the Pill and IUDs.
             Condoms are 95% effective; 100% if combined with contraceptive foam. They are one of the few forms of birth control that protect against pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. Two kinds of condoms are made: skin and rubber. Skin condoms are made of sterile animal membrane and rubber condoms are made of latex and can be pre-lubricated. Vaseline should never be used as lubricant on latex condoms, because it causes the rubber to deteriorate. Contraceptive foam should be kept around just in case the cond...