Unprotected sex on increase among young in Singapore
Posted: 28 September 2010
SINGAPORE: New survey data released in conjunction with World Contraception Day on Sunday, shows that unprotected sex is on the increase among young people in Singapore
Sixty-one per cent sexually active young people between the ages of 16 and 19 surveyed have had sex without contraception with a new partner, a 12 per cent increase from the previous survey done in 2009.
Only 23 per cent of young people in Singapore consider themselves to be very well informed about contraception options.
This compares with 51 per cent globally.
The survey, which supported by a coalition of 10 international organisations with an interest in sexual health said there is a significant disconnect between young people's attitudes to accepting responsibility for contraception and what they are doing in their day to day lives.
It added that the results also highlight that confusion around contraceptive options is still widespread, with highly unreliable contraceptive methods, such as the "withdrawal" method still being viewed as effective.
The survey involved 25 countries and over 5,000 young people aged between 15 and 24 across Asia Pacific, Europe, North American and Latin America.
The survey results are significant as the level of unplanned pregnancies is a major global concern, particularly among young people.
Worldwide, about a third of the 205 million pregnancies which occur each year are unplanned.
In Singapore, the figure is about 2000.
President of the Singapore Planned Parenthood Association, Edward Ong, said with an increasing number of unwanted and unplanned pregnancies as well as abortions, providing education and supportive services is critical, especially for young people.
One healthcare group in Singapore that is stepping to the plate is the Singapore Medical Group.
It will distribute educational booklets at its two gynaecology centres in Singapore.
- CNA/fa
- wong chee tat :)
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