TEENAGERS in York and North Yorkshire are being urged to practise safe sex during the festive season.
National figures published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show a staggering 20 per cent increase in conception rates during December and January when compared with February.
Carly Walker, teenage pregnancy co-ordinator for North Yorkshire County Council, said: “Year on year we see an increase in the number of under-18s getting pregnant during the festive season, so it’s really important they are reminded of risks of having unprotected sex.
It’s important to point out that not all young people are sexually active. Our evidence actually shows that around 25 percent of young people under the age of 16 have had sex, and they are the ones we are hoping to target with this campaign.”
Katie Needham, consultant in public health for NHS North Yorkshire and York, said: “Studies do show a clear link between alcohol consumption and teenage pregnancy rates.”
For advice about sexual health, phone NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.
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