Sex ed programs must be complete

As I am away studying in Rhode Island, I am surprised by the continuing uproar over the Planned Parenthood clinic in Aurora. The deeper issue, however, is something that neither side is addressing: sex education programs in Illinois.

As a graduate from Schaumburg High in 2002, I was on the receiving end of an abstinence-only program. The only type of contraception I learned about was abstinence, nothing else. The fundamental point of educating students is to fully educate students, informing them of all facts and letting them make up their own minds. By their own rationale, they can decide if they want to engage in sexual activity, and if they do, how to handle the situation.

Studies have found that abstinence-only programs leave teens unprepared when they do face a sexual situation. They lack the education and the options, thus opening themselves up to emotional, mental, and physical consequences. As we are required to learn how to communicate effectively and think critically, it's insulting to think that adults feel they know best by censoring information..

In a climate where information is not open, the clinic provides information and services for breast exams, pap tests, birth control, and testing for sexually transmitted diseases, not just abortion services. The less students know how to protect themselves, the more likely the clinic's services will be used. Outrage will continue on the issue until the education system fully does its job and fully educates its students.

Priya Mahajan

Providence, R.I.

(formerly of Schaumburg)