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I have to agree with everyone who has said the talk is necessary to prevent miscommunication and misinformation. Children are becoming sexualized at a younger and younger age due to pressure from the media and society; it is up to parents to educate and guide their children through that tricky time in their lives. I especially have to agree with those who have said it is better to open up the lines of communication and let your children know you are comfortable discussing the issue with them at any time. This is especially important because while public schools do try to pick up the slack they are still only teaching abstinence-based education in the United States and children do not learn about birth control besides abstinence until nearly the 9th grade. Public health needs dictate that we teach our children about safe sex at a younger age as research suggests that children are engaging in sexual activities beyond intercourse at a younger age than before. Thirteen year olds are engaging in oral sex because they think it's safe, which shows just how little effect abstinence based education has, and how much misinformation they receive even from our own education system.
You cannot and should not rely on the education system to do something you yourself should do. If you do not feel you cannot educate your children in an effective manner on sex, sexual intercourse, STDs and the dangers of pregnancy, perhaps you should reconsider having children. Having a good relationship with your child dictates that you communicate with them about all manner of uncomfortable subjects. So either get over it, or don't have kids.
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If I am not better, at least I am different. --Jean-Jacques Rousseau
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