Sex education - what sex education?
How do young people with Down's syndrome Define Down's syndrome find out about puberty?
Press release May 2004
Down's Syndrome Scotland are a leading Scottish charity, working to provide advice, support and information to people with Down's syndrome, parents, carers and professionals.
How often do young people with Down's syndrome understand the changes that happen to their bodies in their teens?
Who explains about mood swings, sexual feelings, periods, self-image, wet dreams and fancying someone?
Down's Syndrome Scotland believe that missing out on vital information at this stage can lead to difficulties later.
The Director of Down's Syndrome Scotland, Karen Watchman said,
It is not uncommon for young adults with Down's syndrome not to know why they go through puberty Define Puberty . There are no links made between changes that can occur in their body at this time and later events such as sex, pregnancy and the menopause.
It is vital that information is given at this early stage to enable a young person to understand what is happening to their bodies and to be aware, for their own safety and wellbeing, what is appropriate and inappropriate behaviour.
A new fully illustrated A4 size, 13-page booklet 'Lets Talk About Puberty' is available in full colour, free of charge from Down's Syndrome Scotland. The booklet has been edited by young people with Down's syndrome and is one in a series of health resources available from Down's Syndrome Scotland.