We also found that a large proportion of CPC Web sites
promoted abstinence until marriage. Abstinence-only education
does not provide information about condoms or
other contraceptive methods. This is problematic because
when adolescents do begin to engage in sexual activity, they
do not have accurate information on methods to prevent
unintended pregnancies or STIs. Abstinence-only education
has been associated with greater rates of unprotected intercourse
and higher rates of unplanned pregnancies.5
Additionally, it offers no greater protection from STI acquisition,
and does not delay debut of sexual activity.5,17,18
None of the Web sites surveyed in this study provided or
promoted CSE, and almost none mentioned effective birth
control options.
Our study had strengths and weaknesses.We completed
a thorough search of the sexual health information available
on CPC Web sites. The collection of multiple pieces of
sexual health information gave us a comprehensive overview
of the services CPCs offer and the information highlighted
on their Web sites. The author consensus and
review of severalWeb sites together ensured accuracy of all
information gathered. Despite their apparent marketing to
adolescents, it is unclear how many adolescents access CPC
Web sites for health information. However, because adolescents
frequently use the Internet to access sexual health
information, it is likely that these Web sites are sometimes
used as a source of information.