Contraception Conversation Starters
1. Starting the Conversation
Goal: Open the topic gently, without pressure.
Parent Script:
“Sometimes as we grow up, our bodies change and we start thinking about relationships. I want to talk with you about ways to stay safe and healthy.”
“Do you know what the word contraceptive means?”
“It’s okay if you don’t know. I can explain it.”
2. Explaining Contraceptives Simply
Goal: Use short sentences and repeat key points.
Parent Script:
“Contraceptives are tools that help people prevent pregnancy.”
“Some contraceptives, like condoms, also protect against infections.”
“They don’t change who you are. They just help you make safe choices.”
3. Talking About Condoms
Goal: Give a concrete example that’s easy to understand.
Parent Script:
“Condoms are covers that go on the penis, or inside the vagina, before sex.”
“They catch sperm, so pregnancy doesn’t happen.”
“They also keep germs from passing between people.”
“Condoms must be used every time someone has sex.”
4. Talking About Other Methods
Goal: Keep explanations simple and avoid overwhelming.
Parent Script:
“There are also medicines that stop pregnancy. Some are pills you take every day. Some are shots you get every few months. Some are small devices a doctor puts in your body that last for years.”
“These medicines do not stop infections. Only condoms do.”
5. Supporting Healthy Choices
Goal: Reinforce consent and autonomy.
Parent Script:
“You never have to do anything you don’t want to do. It is always okay to say no to sex.”
“If you choose to have sex, contraceptives help you stay safe.”
“You can always come to me with questions. I will listen and help.
6. Checking for Understanding
Goal: Make sure the child understands.
Parent Questions:
“Can you tell me what a condom does?”
“Which contraceptive also protects against infections?”
“What can you say if someone asks you to have sex and you don’t want to?”
7. Ending the Conversation
Goal: Keep the door open for future talks.
Parent Script:
“I’m glad we talked about this today. We can talk again any time you want.”
“Your safety and health are very important to me.”
“There are no bad questions. You can always ask me anything.”