Abstract

PIP: The incidence of teenage pregnancy has increased dramatically since 1950 in the US. Increases in numbers of pregnant 15-19 year olds have been higher for whites than for blacks, but the percentage of sexually active 15-19 year olds remains much higher for blacks than for whites. Characteristics of the sexually active teenager related to frequency of intercourse and use of contraception are described. The phenomenon of repeat pregnancy, pregnancy characteristics and outcomes are discussed. Few teenagers choose to place their babies for adoption. About 50% of pregnant teenagers opt for abortion, and most of the others raise their babies. Poor prenatal care is typical for a pregnant teenager. The higher rate of maternal mortality for young mothers is quantified, as is the high incidence of preeclampsia, which is especially marked in predominantly black populations. Incidence of prematurity and perinatal mortality are also higher for teenage pregnancies, especially for nonwhite mothers. The socioeconomic consequences of pregnancy for the black teenager are numerous and negative. A significant gap between articulated and realized goals occurs with pregnancy. Child neglect and abuse are common and serious problems for teenage mothers. In addition, the offspring often have low IQs; IQ diminishes with the age of the mother. Causes probably include prematurity, poor maternal nutrition, poor parenting and child abuse. Concluding remarks stress the seriousness of the threat posed by teenage pregnancy for black youth today.