1. Introduction

In lesson 5 students have learned about sexual attraction, intimacy, being in a relationship and whether or not they are ready for sex. Students learned about the importance of a healthy and safe relationship in which they support each other, respect each other’s (sexual) limits and discuss future plans.

When one does not use a contraceptive, being sexually active has the risk of an unintended pregnancy. Pregnancy is a beautiful thing, especially when it happens at the right time, under the right circumstances.

In this lesson students will learn that planning to become a parent can positively contribute to other future plans. Students receive information on fertility, menstrual cycle, family planning and the different methods(such as a condom, the birth control pill, or an injection) to prevent an unintended pregnancy when they are not ready yet to have a baby. Students also learn that preventing pregnancy and using family planning methods is a responsibility for both girls and boys!

Finally, students reflect on what can be done when someone gets pregnant unintentionally and what consequences and possible solutions an unplanned pregnancy can have.

2. Key Messages

1. From the onset of menstruation a girls becomes fertile and can get pregnant.
2. Boys also become fertile once they start having ejaculations.
3. You have the right and responsibility to decide if and when you want to start your family.
4. This means you have to be aware of when you want to start having sexual intercourse. And also what kinds of protection you want to use to prevent an unintended pregnancy or STI.
5. There are several forms of contraception that you can use. Condoms are the only one that protect against both STI’s/HIV and pregnancy.
6. Both girls AND boys share responsibility for contraception.

3. Lesson Aims

1. Students, both girls and boys, learn to think about their future andlearn how toplan their parenthood by using family planning methods.
2. Students learn the most relevant facts about pregnancy and fertility (of women and men) and how they both can prevent an unintended pregnancy.
3. Students, both boys and girls, are aware of the advantages of waiting for the 'right time' to get pregnant (family planning)and both know their responsibilities, including when a pregnancy happens despite precautions.

4. Main Topics

The most important topics discussed in this lesson are:

1. Menstrual cycle
2. Menstruation
3. Fertility
4. Pregnancy
5. Contraceptives

Please find a detailed description of these, and a lot of other concepts, in the glossary.