Teen Pregnancy

Introduction
Individuals aged 13-19 are far more likely to give birth in the United States than is the
case in any other developed nation in the world. Teen pregnancies in the US peaked in the mid-
twentieth century. The rate of teenage mothers giving birth in the country has been on the rise.
The magnitude and health outcomes of teen pregnancies are not well understood, especially
among teenagers. Teen pregnancies have a profound effect on the lives of young girls who
become mothers at a very tender age. Also, children born of teenagers are more likely to
experience worse “life outcomes” compared to their counterparts who are born by mature
women within the recommended child-bearing age. Teenage pregnancies in the United States
lead to an increase in poverty rates and lower educational attainment. Teen pregnancy is an
occurrence that is a poor fit in any modern society.
Conclusion
Overall, the high rates of teen pregnancies in the United States is a matter of concern
because it is an indicator of a social problem. If a teenager gives birth due to limited chances in
life, then her chances after childbirth might even be slimmer. Thus, teen pregnancies perpetuate
poverty and low standards of living in the country. Policies that tend to encourage teenagers to
abstain, provide access to contraception or even those that promote the provision of sex
education at an early age may not be the solution to this social problem. Instead, the country
needs policies that will be aimed at poverty reduction, improved economic opportunities, as well
as enhanced prospects for adults. Such policies would help reduce teen pregnancies, most of
which arise from low-income neighborhoods.