Teenage pregnancy: comparison with two groups of older pregnant women.

To evaluate the risk of adolescent pregnancies, we examined three groups of primigravidae in a prospective study from 1987 to 1988. A special protocol for the evaluation and follow-up of adolescent pregnancies was made. The rate of adolescent pregnancies was found to be two times higher between the years 1985 and 1987-1988. The pregnancy complications seen in the adolescent patients were equal to or lower than those found in older women. The cesarean section rate was also found to be lower in adolescent pregnancies. We conclude that sexual education programs are necessary for the reduction of teenage pregnancies and adequate medical prenatal care, as well as psychologic and social support, must be given to avoid both medical and psychologic problems for the sensitive young mother.