WHAT IS IMPORTANT TO KNOW ABOUT STDS AND CONTRACEPTION?

This project is worth 100 points. You may work in groups of 2-3 students. Make sure you review each members work. You all will earn the same grade.

Introduction

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a major health concern today. The number of people infected with a STD is increasing in our country every year and is causing major concerns in all areas of health. About 3,000,000 teenagers get an STD every year – that’s about 1 in every 4 sexually experienced teens.

It is known that abstinence from sexual activity is the only sure way to prevent pregnancy. However some people choose to make sexual activity a part of their relationship. If they are participating in sexual activity and do not want to become pregnant they must consider contraceptive options that are available to them. It is important that the facts are clear about all contraceptives so that the best decision can be made.

TASK

Part 1: You have been chosen to work with a team of other teens to create awareness about the topic of STDs. You will be working to educate teens about how STDs are transmitted, what the symptoms are, treatments, which are available, complications if not treated properly, and what prevention is available. It is important for you to clear up misconceptions that teens have about STDs. It is important to know all the facts so you can make wise healthy decisions.

Part 11: Your team will also be working to educate teens about contraceptive options. You will investigate what methods are available, how they work, advantages/ disadvantages and other facts that are needed to know when making a decision about contraception.

PROCESS

STDS:

With your team of committed teens you will develop a table that will serve as a reference for other teens to learn about STDs. You must include the following information in the table:

  • The names of at least 6 sexually transmitted diseases and the pathogen that caused it.
  • The symptoms of each
  • Treatment options for each (if treatment is available)
  • Complications, which may arise, if not treated properly
  • Preventions methods for each

CONTRACEPTIVES:

As we know, abstinence is the best choice in order to avoid pregnancy and disease. However, everyone does not practice abstinence. Your team will also create a chart, which will help others understand the different methods of contraceptives that are available. You will select 6 methods of birth control. Your chart must include:

  • How it is used.
  • How each contraceptive works to reduce pregnancy
  • Advantages / Disadvantages to the contraceptive
  • Effectiveness of the contraceptive
  • Availability (prescription / OTC & price)

Summary of information: Your group is required to complete a one-page summary of your findings focusing on the incidence of STDs. Include information on how many teens are infected with STDs and also where teens can be tested locally for STDs.

EVALUATION

Your group is required to complete two charts, one with STD information and one with contraceptive information. Utilize a computer-generated spreadsheet to make your chart. Pay close attention to the required components of each chart. Make sure all areas are addressed.

Your group must complete a minimum one-page summary addressing the incidence of STDs you researched. Things you need to include are: how many teens are infected with the STD, how this impacts their overall health (6 components), and where teens get more information about STDs. Make sure to include local testing sites.

CONCLUSION

During this activity each of you were given the opportunity to review important information about STDs and contraceptives. Having a strong foundation in these two areas is important for teens and anyone who is considering becoming sexually active. Remember, decisions can impact your overall health and wellness.

This project is worth 100 points. You may work in groups of 2-3 students. Make sure you review each members work. You all will earn the same grade.