Sex education is more important in a post-Roe U.S., but state rules vary; see how your knowledge stacks up

Chart compares states by their required emphasis on abstinence in sex education and the availability of abortion, with the squares sized for each state's population of women of reproductive age. (New York Times chart)

Many states have banned or substantially restricted abortion since the overturn of Roe v. Wade. That makes a solid understanding of reproductive health more important than ever for those trying to prevent unwanted pregnancies. But not all states require sex education to be taught, and 28 states require sex-ed instructors to emphasize abstinence as the best way to prevent pregnancy. Most of states that stress abstinence instruction also have severe restrictions or bans on abortion.

But at least 95% of Americans have had premarital sex, and about half of all pregnancies are unplanned. That means comprehensive knowledge of sex education is a critical resource in preventing pregnancy. See how your knowledge stacks up with a 14-question quiz from The New York Times.