mum
July 1, 2024

Teenage and pregnant: what are the health risks?

The risks of pregnancy at adolescence are well known: arterial hypertension, premature delivery, low weight of the baby. But many experts say that the young age of the mother is not synonymous with additional medical danger. Obstetric risks usually occur when the girl is already experiencing a complicated social situation. Relational difficulties in the couple or family or fear of the future can indeed lead to complications during the pregnancy. As for an older mother-to-be, the young woman must give up smoking and alcohol but also watch her diet. Dietary deficiencies can have consequences for the baby: abnormalities in the development of the placenta, the fetus and increased risk of prematurity.
A well-attended pregnancy is not risky
The pregnancies teenage girls would not be riskier than those of older women. This is what doctors now say. The condition ? May they be well assisted and as soon as possible. But many professionals deplore the time they put forth. They consult most of the time in the emergency, sometimes late and are often alone to face the difficulties. They are more easily going to family planning. And yet ... The diagnosis of pregnancy makes it possible to start specific support more quickly. These young women must be accompanied and treated by a complete medical team. Good physical and psychological care is provided by a midwife, a nurse's aide, a psychologist, a gynecologist and a pediatrician. In the absence of an emotional or social environment, the teenager can be accommodated in a maternal home. Adequate follow-up thus makes it possible to avoid at best any complication among teenage mothers who are preparing to have a baby.


Healthcare for Pregnant, Parenting Teens | Children's Health Update | NPT Reports (July 2024)