Managing teenage pregnancy

Abstract

Teenage pregnancy costs the NHS an estimated £63 000 000 a year, and can result in significant physical and psychosocial problems in both mother and baby. Becoming pregnant at a young age can be associated with an adverse impact on educational achievement, social isolation, poverty, and physical and mental health. The resultant child can have an increased risk of developmental and behavioural disorders, as well as poorer educational outcomes. Given the gravity of these issues on a teenager’s life, teenage pregnancy is a priority for Public Health in the UK. The UK Government has included the under-18’s conception rate as one of the three sexual health indicators in the Public Health Outcomes Framework 2013–2016. This article aims to outline the risk factors and problems of teenage pregnancy, as well providing the GP with guidance to manage a young mother in a sensitive and holistic manner.