The Importance of Prevention
In 2013, a total of 273,105 babies were born to women aged 15–19 years, for a live birth rate of 26.5 per 1,000 women in this age group. This is a record low for U.S. teens in this age group, and a drop of 10%from 2012. Birth rates fell 13% for women aged 15–17 years, and 8% for women aged 18–19 years. While reasons for the declines are not clear, teens seem to be less sexually active, and more of those who are sexually active seem to be using birth control than in previous years.
About teen pregnancy
Teen pregnancy and childbearing bring substantial social and economic costs through immediate and long-term impacts on teen parents and their children.
Parent/Guardian Resources
Your teen needs your help in understanding his or her feelings, peer pressure, and how to say no if he or she does not want to have sex.
Health Care Providers
As a health care provider, you play a critical role in further reducing teen pregnancy rates through the care you provide to your adolescent patients.
Partners
Vital Signs
News, Links & Related Publications
- Page last reviewed: March 31, 2015
- Page last updated: May 5, 2015
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