By Ruth Hunter-Hill
Are you looking forward to prom? Even though it’s been many (MANY) years since my prom, I’ll never forget it. I attended multiple proms at different schools in my hometown of Gary, Indiana. Each one was fun in its own way, and I still harbor memories of them.
For many, prom is symbolic of walking through the door to adulthood; it is indeed a rite of passage! Your prom will be an evening to remember.
So, what happens after prom? Society at large would have us believe that the after-prom activities should include sex. But is that true or more of a myth…or a wish that some hope will come true?
What I found is that most teens, along with their parents, plan much more benign prom activities! A surprisingly small percentage of teens have expectations of having sex on prom night.
Remember, you’ve just walked through the door to adulthood – you aren’t there yet. Prom night is a threshold, and signals that it’s time to start making adult choices. Do I join in with the drinking? Everyone else is smoking marijuana, and the group may not accept me if I don’t do it too. My date has been throwing hints about having sex on prom night, but I don’t know…You have an opportunity to show your parents and friends that you know how to make responsible choices for yourself.
In the all-encompassing COVID19 environment, don’t forget that COVID is not the only dangerous infection out there. Sexually transmitted diseases (STD) are still out there. Yes, STDs are treatable, and most are curable. But why put your body through that trauma when it can be avoided? Infections can range from a minor irritating rash to the herpes virus – which to date is not curable. Some infections can have long-range effects on your health.
And let’s be clear: sex includes vaginal, oral, and anal intimate contact.
According to the CDC, there are 20 million new STD infections in the US every year, so make no mistake – the risk is real. Until researching for this article, I had no idea STDs were still that common.
Each of us is responsible for our own health, and as we mature, we take more of that responsibility away from parents. You can keep your body free from STDs and still have a great time at your prom.
The time leading up to prom is exciting! As the prom approaches, get specifics about post prom activities and agree on a plan with your friends. Share this information with your parents. It’s to your advantage to be honest!
• Where is the event? What time does it end?
• Who is sponsoring the event? Your school? A different school? Or is it a private party?
• Ensure you have reliable (sober) transportation.
• Are students from other schools allowed to attend?
• Will the event be chaperoned?
Show your parents that you are ready to make more adult choices by agreeing to call them (or their designee) if you get “stuck” in any way.
If you’re going with a date, part of your plan must be that you know your date’s expectations regarding sex…and he or she must know and respect your limitations. Discuss this ahead of time and make it clear that you won’t be pressured into doing something you don’t want to do.
The following sites have very good information on having fun on prom night and sexually transmitted diseases. Be aware – take care of yourself.
https://www.cdc.gov/std/prevention/lowdown/
https://teens.lovetoknow.com/What_Happens_on_Prom_Night
Mar12021
