In 1995, seven percent of female teens overall used these methods. In terms of risk, therefore, the relatively widespread use of these effective methods among black females may partially compensate for their decrease in the use of oral contraceptives. There are many different sources of influence on teens' sexual and contraceptive behavior, ranging from the individual to the societal level. One likely source of influence is sex education. 4 Analyses have also shown that receiving formal instruction on contraception increases the likelihood a teen female will use contraception at first intercourse.
Most female teens receive formal instruction on birth control methods.
The share of teenagers who ever had sex plateaued or declined in the 1990s. Recent sexually activity among teens dropped, primarily among white suburban teens. Oral contraceptive use declined, suggesting greater vulnerability to unintended pregnancy if other hormonal methods or consistent condom use are not employed. Most teenagers are receiving sex and AIDS education about delaying sexual onset and using contraception. Overall sexual risk levels appear to have gone down among U.S. teens between 1988 and 1995.