New Zealand Teens Likely to Delay Sex But Contraception Use Declines, Says Study

High school students in New Zealand are more likely to delay sexual activities until they are older, a study reveals. However, teenagers who are active sexually are less likely to use contraceptives consistently.

The study, titled "Changes in the sexual health behaviours of New Zealand secondary school students, 2001-2012: findings from a national survey series," used data from the Youth2000 series of surveys. Conducted in 2001, 2007, and 2012, he surveys involved more than 27,000 high school students.

"Students in 2012 were more likely to delay sexual activity, but were less likely to use condoms and contraception consistently, compared to students in 2001," part of the paper's conclusion reads.

The study was conducted by the Adolescent Health Research Group from the University of Auckland. The researchers, led by Dr. Terryann Clark from the university's School of Nursing, revealed that New Zealand European teenagers as well as students who belong to wealthier neighborhoods have better access to contraception than Māori and Pacific students and those who are socioeconomically deprived.

"Declining contraceptive use over an 11-year period suggests that current strategies are inadequate, particularly for Māori, Pacific and socioeconomically deprived students," the study says. "Appropriate and accessible sexual and reproductive health services are urgently required."

According to the press release, Clark said that the current strategies are not improving youth's access to contraceptives. She said that strategies should include education, aspirations, and employment. To reduce teen pregnancy, teens should be engaged in school and that they have goals for the future. Moreover, they should have access to free health care and information that are culturally responsive and non-judgmental.

"Sexual health is still shrouded in secrecy, shame and embarrassment," Clark explained. "Society still finds youth sexual behaviour difficult to talk about, and therefore resources and support are limited. A comprehensive approach to sexual health is required if we want healthy young people who feel valued and contribute well to society."