Teenage Pregnancy Problems

The teenage years are a notoriously difficult period, but pregnant teens face added struggles that often outlast the teen years. Young mothers and their babies are at risk for serious health, social and economic problems. According to the March of Dimes, over 750,000 teenage girls become pregnant in the U.S. every year.

Risks to Baby

Babies born to teen mothers are at increased risk for low birth weight, preterm births, and health problems not associated with babies of older mothers. Pregnant teens are also less likely than older women to seek adequate prenatal care, which puts the health of their babies in jeopardy.

Risks to Mothers

Teenagers face a higher risk of developing anemia and high blood pressure during pregnancy than older women.

Economic Struggles

Teenage mothers often come from lower income levels and depend on welfare. They are more likely to drop out of high school, and to use drugs and alcohol.

Emotional Effects

Pregnant teens face the fear and confusion that comes with an unplanned pregnancy at a young age and may bear the burden of raising a child without the support of family or the child's father.

Long-Term Problems

Boys born to teenage mothers are more likely to be incarcerated later in life while girls are more likely to become teenage mothers themselves.

References

• March of Dimes
• Women's Health Channel

Resources

• The National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy