Teen pregnancy is associated with increased social and economic costs and has immediate and long-term effects on teen parents, their children, and communities (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Infants born to pregnant teens are more likely to be premature, have low birth weight, and are at higher risk for death. Having a baby can also negatively impact the pregnant teen’s health and their educational and job opportunities. Evidence shows that a variety of outreach and educational programs can help reduce unintended teen pregnancies (Healthy People 2030).  

Considerations for Equitable Approaches: Although teen pregnancy and birth rates have declined in recent years, disparities by race and ethnicity remain. Social determinants of health such as education and income of the teen’s family, may contribute to higher teen birth rates. Community level efforts that address social and economic factors associated with teen pregnancy can play a critical role in addressing racial, ethnic, and geographical disparities in teen births (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). 

Inclusive Language Recommendations: As not all people who are pregnant identify as women, recommendations for more gender-inclusive language include using "pregnant people" and "pregnant patients" or other wording as applicable when referring to general recommendations for pregnancy (National Institutes of Health).