Perhaps Americans can learn a thing or two from how Ireland is approaching the subject of unplanned pregnancy. You know, from a proactive approach by addressing the use of contraception and the risks of unprotected sex. Far-fetched, I know, but I think they might be on to something here!

(Okay, I'll drop the sarcasm.)

But, seriously. Have you heard anything about World Contraception Day here in America? In Dublin they're preparing to "promote education and raise awareness," especially in the targeted demographic of people in the 18-25 age range. I hadn't heard anything until I read an article... out of Ireland. I wonder why weren't not talking about it here. (Of course, I know. But still.)

That said, Ireland isn't perfect. They're having their issues as well as made evident by this quote from a doctor who works at a clinic.

We are regularly seeing cases of young men and women who have either been misinformed or uneducated on the contraception options available to them.

Sounds like America, doesn't it? Furthermore, the doctor explained that on top of this lack of knowledge about contraception in general, the young men and women are totally not prepared for what an unplanned pregnancy can do to their life. (I would also argue that married people who are surprised by an unplanned pregnancy are also caught off guard.)

But the point she makes is one that I can get behind:

It is vital that our young people be given the education to make informed decisions about such a serious issue.

It is vital. Educating people about the use of contraception and the reality of unplanned pregnancy won't solve the entire problem. I get the fact that people are still going to have unprotected sex. I understand that people are still going to make poor decisions. But neglecting to teach them about the consequences seems like we're setting them up for premature failure.

As a mother who has experienced an unplanned pregnancy and dealt with those consequences, I can tell you that education is needed in our country (and obviously in others). I think all women over the age of 18 should read the book Taking Charge of Your Fertility which does a great job at explaining the ins and outs of a cycle. For the younger woman set, the sister book Cycle Savvy would be a great introduction as to what a girl's body is going through at any given day in her cycle.

Taking a proactive approach to education about sex can't hurt anymore than the current lack of education has done thus far. Right? Right.



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