Taking care of yourself this Valentine's day and beyond

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Making responsible choices, especially concerning your future, is crucial.

This is particularly true when it comes to sexual activity, which can have significant physical, emotional, and legal implications for teens. Prioritizing safety, consent, and clear communication is essential in any situation involving sexual activity.

The recent study by the University of the Philippines Population Institute (UPPI) offers valuable insights.

Their Young Adult Fertility and Sexuality Study (YAFS5), known as the most comprehensive source of information on young people's sexual and reproductive health, found a significant decline in teenage pregnancy rates.

The proportion of young women aged 15-19 who have begun childbearing dropped sharply from 13.7 percent in 2013 to 6.8 percent in 2021.

The Commission on Population and Development (CPD) suggests this positive trend could be partly due to the government's sustained efforts, alongside civil society and development partners, to reduce and prevent adolescent pregnancies. These efforts likely involved education, awareness campaigns, and improved access to reproductive health services.

This decline highlights the effectiveness of responsible decision-making and access to information. Choosing to delay sexual activity allows young people to focus on their education, personal development, and future goals. Additionally, understanding consent and practicing safe sex are crucial for protecting physical and emotional well-being.

Remember, making informed choices empowers you to build a brighter future for yourself. Always prioritize your safety and well-being when making decisions about your sexual health.

While teenage pregnancy rates have declined, thanks to factors like reduced premarital sex and better contraceptive use, a worrying trend has emerged: an increase in live births among very young adolescents, especially 10-14 year olds, according to the Commission on Population and Development (CPD) and Civil Registry and Vital Statistics (CRVS) data.

This calls for heightened vigilance, particularly as Valentine's Day approaches. This holiday can fuel curiosity among young people, leading some to believe it's a time defined by romantic gestures, potentially leading to risky sexual behavior and early pregnancy.

To navigate this season and beyond safely, remember these crucial points:

1. Love doesn't require sexual activity: True love and affection can be expressed in many ways, without the pressure to engage in sex.

2. Consent is key (walang pilitan): Always ensure both partners have clear and enthusiastic consent before any sexual activity. Open and honest communication with your partner is crucial. Discuss boundaries, desires, and expectations beforehand to ensure that you both feel comfortable and respected. Consent is non-negotiable

3. Prioritize your safety and well-being: Don't feel pressured to engage in activities that make you uncomfortable or unsafe.

4. Protect yourself (matutong magbasa-basa at magtanong): Educate yourself about safe sex practices and use reliable contraception, if applicable.

5. Consider emotional readiness (ready ka na ba talaga?): Sexuality is not just physical; it involves emotional intimacy as well. Make sure you and your partner are emotionally ready for the potential consequences of sexual activity, such as feelings of attachment or regret.

6. Use protection (dapat protektado ka): If you decide to have sex, always use protection to prevent unwanted pregnancy and reduce the risk of STIs. Condoms are highly effective when used correctly and consistently.

7. Avoid pressure (huwag mo munang isuko ang Bataan kung kinakailangan):

Never feel pressured into sexual activity by your partner or anyone else. It's okay to say no, and your boundaries should always be respected.

8. Get tested (huwag mahiya at magpa-test): If you've been sexually active before or plan to be, consider getting tested for STIs regularly, even if you don't have any symptoms. Many STIs can be asymptomatic but still pose health risks.

9. Know the legal implications (may mga batas ukol rito): Be aware of the legal age of consent in your area and understand the potential legal consequences of engaging in sexual activity with someone under the age of consent.

10. Plan ahead (anong balak mo?): If you anticipate being sexually active, make a plan for contraception and protection beforehand. Keep condoms or other contraceptives on hand and know how to use them correctly.

11. Seek support and guidance (makinig sa mga payo): If you have questions or concerns about sex, relationships, or sexual health, don't hesitate to seek guidance from a trusted adult, healthcare provider, or a reputable source of information.

Remember, your well-being is paramount. Celebrate Valentine's Day and other occasions in a way that respects yourself and others. Make responsible choices that prioritize your safety and future.

Remember, sexual activity is a significant decision that should be made thoughtfully and responsibly. Your health, safety, and well-being should always be the top priority. If you're unsure or uncomfortable, it's okay to wait until you feel more confident and prepared.

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