A study released on Tuesday reported that teen pregnancy is on the rise for the first time in a decade. Even worse, that news comes on the heels of a study that found one in four teenage girls has a sexually transmitted disease (STD).

How is this happening? Some people say sex education isn't going far enough, while others say all this sex talk is practically giving our kids permission to do it. Do we focus on teaching kids about safe sex or should we encourage abstinence?

There is a lot of talk about it on the iVillage message boards.

"I think abstinence during teen years is definitely a good thing to teach, but not preach."
-- adamsmumma

"Fact is, most teens are too irresponsible, immature and emotionally unevolved to well and truly handle all of the consequences surrounding sexual relationships, up to and including pregnancy. With that in mind, I think there's nothing wrong with encouraging abstinence. It IS the best way and only full proof way to avoid unwanted pregnancies, STDs, gossip and social stigma surrounding early sexuality."
-- chaoticchemistry

"Seems to me that another factor in the teen pregnancy rate is the bombardment of our children with the message that they need to be sexually desirable in the media. Starts early and doesn't seem to let up."
-- jabberwocka

"Even having a marriage certificate doesn't make you ready for a baby," warned one teen mom. Read what else she has to say.

What do you think? How can we reverse teen pregnancy and STD rates?