![[picture of a baby]](baby10.gif)
Babies born in the U.S. to teenage mothers are at risk for long-term problems in many major areas of life, including school failure, poverty, and physical or mental illness. Teenage pregnancy is usually a crisis for the pregnant girl and her family. The father is young and present, similar problems can occur in his family.
![[picture of a mother holding a child]](mother_thm.jpg)
Babies born to teenagers are at risk for neglect and abuse because their young mothers are uncertain about
their roles and may be frustrated by the constant demands of care taking. Many teenage girls are forced to drop out of school to have their babies. In this way,
pregnant teens lose the opportunity to learn skills necessary for employment and self-survival as adults.
The birth rate for young teens (age 15 to 17) is steadily rising. Between 1986 and 1991, the rate increased by 27 percent (from a rate of 30.5 to a rate of 38.7 per 1,000 women). In 1991 (the most recent
year for which data are available), nearly 4 in 100 girls ages 15 to 17 had a baby.
Adult parents can help prevent teenage pregnancy by
providing guidance to their children about sexuality and the risks and responsibilities of intimate relationships and pregnancy.
For more information about teen pregnancy contact:
Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Coalition
Of North Carolina (APPCNC)
Alliance for Young Families
Or your local Health Department
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