After their son Nicholas came out to them, one pair of supportive parents went a step further than most would.

They bought their son a copy of bestselling guide The Joy of Gay Sex.

So many gay teenagers fear coming out to their parents: Some are understanding, others upset. Some, more than upset.

For young people from traditional countries or backgrounds, coming out as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender can seem an impossibility.

But for Nicholas, coming out gave his parents the chance to think about how best to support and guide him.

The parents also left a loving, handwritten letter with the sex manual, which was left on his pillow. 

Nicholas posted the picture on Instagram with the tagline, 'I came out to my parents in August. This was on my pillow last night. I love you, Mom and Dad.'

The Instagram picture has received over 300,000 views and over 200 comments.

The full letter reads:

'Dear Nicolas,

'We recognize that this is an unusual book for parents to give to their children. But we would prefer that you not learn about sex solely from gay porn, and neither of us feels well-qualified to give you personal advice for obvious reasons.

'So hopefully this will answer a few questions, and help explain some things.

'Much love,

'Mom'

The boy's father added at the bottom of the letter:

'We want you to know that we support you in all ways, and love you very much, even if this seems like an odd gift.

'Love, Dad.'