In 1913, sex education became a topic that proved to be an important educational tool. Since then, this form of education has been a hot and controversial topic among many Americans. The original reason for sex education classes was to reduce problems such as sexually transmitted diseases and prostitution. In recent years, abstinence has become the focus of sex education programs. Abstinence means completely abstaining from sexual relations. Although it is the only one hundred percent way to prevent sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancies, teaching abstinence should not be the only form of sex education taught. Our young people must know all aspects of sexuality. This includes how to protect them if they choose to become sexually active, where to go if they have an unplanned pregnancy, what options are available and appropriate boundaries, which includes the right to say no. Sex can also be a topic that some parents may not feel comfortable talking about with their children, as well as an important issue that encompasses a healthy sex lifestyle. Unfortunately, because of this, many of our youth will remain uneducated and at much higher risk of problematic issues such as STDs, HIV, and teen pregnancy. Recent surveys show that 70 percent of American teenagers have had oral sex. by the time they reach 18, and more than 45 percent have had sex at least once. More than 70 percent of young women and 80 percent of young men approve of premarital sex, according to a study published recently in the Review of General Psychology. Additionally, studies show that sexually transmitted diseases are spreading at an alarming rate among young people. This proves that abstinence-only education is not beneficial for those who...... middle of paper ...... ears of abstinence-only education until marriage : impact assessment. " Advocates for Youth. Advocates for Youth 2008, nd Web. April 14, 2011. .Research, sexuality and social policy. "Abstinence is just a failure, according to the latest research | National Sexuality Resource Center ( NSRC). National Sexuality Resource Center, San Francisco State University, December 2, 2010. Web. April 14, 2011. .Santelli, MD, MPH, John, Mary A. Ott, MD, Maureen Lyon, Ph.D., Jennifer Rogers, MPH, Daniel Summers, MD, and Rebecca Schleifer, JD, MPH “Abstinence and Abstinence-Only Education: A Review of U.S. Policies ». 38 (2006) 72-81 38 (2006) : 72-81..