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Unprotected sex, not state benefits, causes unintended pregnancies

I disagree with the argument that benefits for single parents are an incentive for people to have children out of wedlock (“Unequal benefits for single unwed mums a matter of deterrence”; Aug 3).

I disagree with the argument that benefits for single parents are an incentive for people to have children out of wedlock (“Unequal benefits for single unwed mums a matter of deterrence”; Aug 3).

Unprotected intercourse between heterosexual couples is what causes unintended pregnancies. It occurs for myriad reasons, ranging from the thrill of the act to ignorance about reproductive cycles. Unprotected sex can also occur inadvertently when prophylactics fail. The benefits single parents will obtain are the furthest thing from the average person’s mind before and during the deed.

Unplanned conception can be deterred through holistic sexuality education programmes, such as those already being carried out in educational institutions.

But the best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry. People will fall through the cracks, and accidents will happen.

Single-parent benefits would address these unfortunate scenarios — not incentivise more couples to make the beast with two backs.

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