* Higher rates of teenage pregnancy: Without proper knowledge about contraception and reproductive health, teenagers are more likely to engage in risky sexual behavior and become pregnant unintentionally. This leads to significant social and economic consequences for both the teens and their families.
* Increased risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs): A lack of education about STIs, their transmission, and prevention leaves individuals vulnerable to infection. Some STIs can have long-term health consequences, including infertility and even death.
* Delayed or forgone healthcare: Without knowledge of their bodies and reproductive health, individuals may delay or avoid seeking necessary medical care, leading to worsened health outcomes.
* Perpetuation of harmful myths and misinformation: The absence of accurate and comprehensive sex education creates a vacuum that is often filled with inaccurate and potentially harmful information from unreliable sources.
* Increased risk of sexual assault and abuse: Sex education that includes consent, healthy relationships, and body autonomy can empower individuals to protect themselves and recognize abusive behaviors. Lack of such education leaves individuals vulnerable.
* Lower rates of sexual health literacy: Comprehensive sex education fosters responsible decision-making and improves sexual health literacy, which is crucial for lifelong well-being.
While some argue against certain aspects of sex education (often focusing on abstinence-only approaches), the overall consensus among public health organizations is that comprehensive sex education is essential for promoting the health and well-being of young people. There are no legitimate benefits to withholding this crucial information.