Teen Pregnancy

Concerns with Physical Health of Mother

Teen mothers have higher rates of illness and death, Hypertension, Placenta Previa, premature delivery, significant anemia, and toxemia. Physical health suffers because of stress. Teen mothers may try and hide their pregnancy and not have proper nutrition. They might have chemical dependencies. They may try and keep up with their old active lifestyles—which may put stress on the pregnancy. They may not get enough sleep or be as concerned with the health of their baby.

Concerns with Mental Health of Mother

Mental health suffers because of stress. Teen mothers are more likely to have unhealthy habits which place the infant at greater risk for inadequate growth, infection, or chemical dependence. They may have depression or anxiety about pregnancy. They may lose friends or social connections. She may feel isolated, have a lack of support system, or think that they can’t succeed. She may have low self-esteem or feel that no one will want her with a kid.

Concerns with Prenatal Infant Development

Higher rates of illness and death. 2 to 6 times more likely to have low birthrate. The younger a mother is below age 20, the greater the risk of her infant dying during the first year of life. High rates of premature babies or chemical dependent babies. Could suffer for fetal alcohol syndrome or drug addictions. If the mom is not getting proper nutrition during the first trimester—there can be many health consequences like miscarriage and spinal bifida. If the mother is highly active and the infant experience this high activity level during prenatal development—they could have high activity level traits.