Two thirds of American teenagers aren't learning about contraceptives

Approximately one-third of American teenagers enrolled in sex education classes have been taught about contraceptive methods, according to a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

It found that nearly 50 percent of teenagers in grades 9 through 12 are sexually active, which has health experts concerned that many are unaware of safe sex practices, AOLNews.com reports. Also, approximately 47 percentof the female study participants said they had learned about birth control options, while only 38 percent of boys were taught about these methods.

Despite a lack of contraceptive information being taught during sex education classes, the results of the questionnaire showed that teens are aware of contraceptive methods, the news source reports. In fact, 83 percent of female participants and 91 percent male participants reported they used at least one type of contraception during sex.

"We cannot afford to keep our heads in the sand about ensuring that our young people have access to comprehensive sex education," said Cecile Richards, president of Planned Parenthood Federation of America. She added that a sex education program needs to include "abstinence, contraception, healthy relationships and responsible decision making."

Last year, 34 percent of sexually active teenagers reported they didn't use a condom during their most recent sexual experience, according to the CDC.