A Closer Look at the Overall Consequences of Teenage Pregnancy
All studies show that teen pregnancies are not beneficial to any of the parties involved. There are many consequences of teenage pregnancy and it is important to inform children beforehand in order for them to make a responsible choice.
All studies show that teen pregnancies are not beneficial to any of the parties involved. There are many consequences of teenage pregnancy and it is important to inform children beforehand in order for them to make a responsible choice.
Effects on the Mother
Subjecting a young body to the demands of pregnancy may result in a number of health complications to both the mother and the new baby. Pregnant teens are more prone to suffering high blood pressure, which may lead to a condition called “pre-eclampsia” or pregnancy induced hypertension. This is a serious condition which may lead to pregnancy complications.
How it Affects the Baby
The consequences of teenage pregnancy also include the baby’s well-being. The babies born to teenage mothers are prone to being born prematurely. They are also more likely to be born underweight. Both of these conditions increase the chances that they will need special medical attention.
Financial Consequences on the Family
Both present and future financial costs are affected by teenage pregnancies. Both the child and the young mother are more likely to have health complications as a result of the pregnancy, these costs may be significantly higher when compared to planned adult pregnancies.
Two out of three pregnant teens drop out of high school and 80% of them rely on welfare as consequences of teenage pregnancy. Teen births are often causes for lower annual incomes for both the teen mother and the father. Teen fathers are also more prone to substance abuse and excessive alcohol intake due to the added pressure of providing for their young family.
Due to the fact that only a small fraction of teen mothers are actually married to the baby’s father, her family will have to deal with the additional costs of providing for both her and the new baby.
Posted on June 27, 2010 by admin