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There are many – some very serious issues involved with teenage pregnancy these days. There are numerous health risks to both the mother and the unborn baby, and there are some very important factors we need to consider. Even with the numinous and in some cases quite serious health risks, there are still almost one million teenage girls becoming pregnant each and every year here in the United States alone.

Listed below are some of the many risks and complications that can occur as a result of teenage pregnancy.

Low Birth Weight – Teenagers are less likely to gain the extra weight they need during their pregnancy, leading to a low birth weight. Low birth weight, in turn, is associated with many and varied childhood disorders, and also has a high rate of infant mortality. Infants who are born with a low birth weight often have organs that aren’t developed fully, which can result in something as serious as bleeding in the brain. If you are a pregnant teenager, it is very important that you make sure you gain adequate weight to avoid such health risks.

Premature Babies – Teenage mothers are far more likely to give birth to premature babies, which pose serious and sometimes fatal risks for the baby. Most commonly, premature babies are at a much higher risk than full term babies to develop bleeding in the brain, serious retinal problems, intestinal problems, and even sudden infant death syndrome, which is the unexpected and unexplainable death of a baby in their sleep. Even if none of these happen, a premature baby is much more prone to face a lifetime of many health problems – seizures, developmental delays, and even cerebral palsy.

Smoking and Pregnancy- However sad, teenage mothers are more likely to smoke than mother’s over the age of twenty five. Smoking dramatically increases the risk of a low birth weight in babies, which is discussed above. Also, smoking while pregnant highly increases a lot more pregnancy complications, premature birth, and giving birth to a stillborn baby to name but a few.

The information on this page is not intended to be a criticism towards teenage pregnancy; rather it is geared towards highlighting the risks involved. We strongly recommend that if you or your child is a teenager and pregnant, that you should always go to your prenatal care visits. And no matter what else you to, at the very least be sure to take your vitamins and eat a healthy diet – always keep a record and maintain a good pregnant weight, but don’t do it by eating junk. Remember A healthy, balanced diet goes a long way not only for you but also for your developing baby.