A national study of teenage girls has determined that one in four has a sexually transmitted disease. The study monitored four different STDs -- HPV, chlamydia, herpes simples type 2, and trichomoniasis. Almost 50% of African-American girls in the study and 20% of Caucasian girls were infected with at least one of the STDs. 15% had more than one STD. The most common conditions were HPV and chlamydia.

Education, prevention, and even vaccination are so important for young girls who may become sexually active. I'm not a parent to a girl, but I do have a young boy. He's only 10, but I don't think it's too soon to discuss these issues. Right now, I keep it age-appropriate and talk a lot about respecting others, how to treat girls with respect, and the importance of privacy. For tips on how to talk to teens about sex, click here.

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