Pregnancy is one of the pivotal moments of a woman’s life but
not when you’re young with a bright future ahead. Teen pregnancy
is one of the most difficult experiences any young woman can go
through. The stress of pregnancy, revelation of pregnancy to
parents, and moving on despite the shame and worry can be
nerve-racking. Indeed pregnancy especially during teenhood will
never be easy.
According to studies, teenage pregnancies in the United States
have decreased steadily over the years. In 1991, there were 60
out of 1000 young women who gave birth and in 1998, 51 out of
1000 gave birth. This decrease may be due to the effective use
of birth control and decreased sexual activity among teens.
Yet teen pregnancy rates remain high. According to Women’s
Health Channel, in the United States alone, approximately 1
million teenage girls experience pregnancy every year. At least
5% of young girls give birth and in 1997, at least 13% of the
births in the US are of teenage girls. ?? Health risks to the
baby and children out of teen pregnancy are more likely to
experience health, social, and emotional problems. An increased
risk for complications such as premature labor in teen pregnancy
and socioeconomic consequences are present.
But there are more serious problems for the teenage
mothers-to-be than the statistics and how the world views them
either negatively or positively. Both the baby and the mother
are at risk in major areas of life such as school failure,
poverty, and physical or mental illness.
Pregnant teenagers may not seek proper medical care that may
lead to a bigger risk of medical complications. In their
pregnancy, they need understanding, medical care, and education
– particularly in nutrition and complications of pregnancy.
Pregnancy to teenagers brings all sorts of emotions. Some do not
want their babies while others feel that its creation is an
achievement. Some feel guilty and anxious while others feel that
they need to baby to love but not aware of the special care it
would need. Also, depression is common during pregnancy in
teenagers. And when worse comes to worst, a pregnant teenager
may even require the help of a mental health professional.
Teen pregnancy can be risky to unborn babies. Teen pregnancy
results to underweight babies, poor eating habits of the
teenager, and smoking and drinking tendencies of the pregnant
girl. Lastly, pregnant teens are less likely to seek prenatal
care.
Unwanted pregnancy can be prevented through open communication
and providing guidance regarding sexuality, contraception, and
risks and responsibilities of possible pregnancy. Sexual
education and family life in schools can also prevent unwanted
pregnancies. Finally, support of family and love will greatly
help pregnant teens.