BUILDING A SEX-POSITIVE HEALTHCARE TEAM FOR YOUR TEEN: TOP QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR DOCTOR
What is sex positivity?
Sex positivity is not a behavior. It is an attitude. A sex-positive mindset embraces and celebrates consensual sexual expression in all forms, recognizing that sex is a natural and healthy part of life for those who choose to engage.
People who embrace sex positivity believe that creating safe, non-judgemental spaces to explore ideas about sex and sexuality affirms our confidence, comfort, and connection in all areas of our life—in and out of the bedroom—whether or not we are actively engaging in sexual acts.
In fact, choosing how to engage (which may mean choosing not to engage in certain situations) is a central goal of sex positivity because it means we feel empowered to make our own decisions about who, what, where, and when.
Choice is the foundation of a sex-positive mindset.
Why is building a sex-positive team for your teenager important?
If your teen has started to ask questions about sex or sexuality, it is vital to meet them where they are at. Avoiding these important questions only adds to their confusion and embarrassment. It may make your teen think their curiosities and questions are abnormal or wrong.
Sex is a natural curiosity for teenagers. As they enter adolescence, teens explore their bodies and become more aware of their sexuality. This is a very normal part of growing up. Parents and guardians must provide their teens with accurate information about sex and healthy relationships. It is also important to provide teens with resources and support to help them make informed decisions about their sexual health.
When interviewing or meeting your teen’s doctor, we recommend first reviewing their website, credentials, and affiliations to ensure they are a right fit for your family and educated in the areas you most need. It’s a bonus if you can choose a doctor who has been referred by a trusted family member or friend rather than relying on online reviews, but in the event that no referral has been given, talk to your teen about the type of person they may be most comfortable discussing sensitive issues with. (Is gender important to them, for example?)
Next, it is essential to confirm that the healthcare provider has a sex-positive attitude. In other words, they also agree that your teen’s curiosities are a normal part of their development and that adequate education is the best way to ensure they make healthy, safe, and empowered choices.
The Feeling Seen Top 5 - Part I:
Questions to ask your healthcare professional.
What approach do you take when discussing sexual health topics with patients?
What are your views on contraception and STI testing?
What is your comfort level discussing sex, sexuality, or sexual orientation?
What resources are available at your practice to help my family learn more about sexual health?
How do you assess whether a patient is making an informed decision?
The Feeling Seen Top 5 - Part II:
Questions to ask yourself after meeting with your healthcare professional.
Was the care provider an effective communicator? In other words, did they listen well to my concerns, and were they engaged and connected to me during our conversation?
Was the care provider willing to collaborate with other members of the healthcare team (for example, mental health professionals)?
Does the care provider embrace sexuality and its treatment in a multidimensional way? In other words, do they appear to understand the mental and emotional effects as well as the physical ones?
Was the care provider timely in their responses or referrals to other health care professionals, if applicable?
Did I receive a comprehensive and detailed treatment plan from the care provider, if necessary?
Answering these questions and having these conversations early (though initially uncomfortable) guarantees that your doctor, therapist, or other healthcare professionals can provide you and your teen with the best care possible.
