The Impact on Children from Teenage Pregnancy

Teenage Pregnancy: Consequences of Early Parenthood

Abstract

Teenage pregnancy is a global issue and a significant health concern in Thailand. This case control study investigated the impact on children born to teenage mothers compared to those born to mothers over 20 years old, using data from medical records and a teenage screening form from the Adolescent Clinic at Buddhachinaraj Phitsanulok Hospital. The study included personal and medical data such as maternal age, gestational age, chronic diseases, delivery method, birth weight, hematocrit, length and weight of the child, and developmental milestones. Statistical analysis was used to assess the incidence and outcomes of teenage pregnancy. It was found that between 1 July 2021 and 31 December 2022 (18 months), there were a total of 4,387 children born, of which 1,132 (25.8%) were teenage mothers. Infants born to teenage mothers and mothers over 20 years of age were born prematurely at 17.2 % and 13.6 %, respectively. Teenage mothers and mothers over 20 years of age exclusively breastfed their babies at 56.9% and 63.7%, respectively. Delayed expressive language was observed in 3.7% of children born to teenage mothers compared to those born to older mothers (p = 0.035). The findings indicate that children born to teenage mothers are more likely to have health problems than other mothers.