Dear poppink987,

Many teens can become pregnant even though their bodies are not always mature enough to totally support pregnancy and childbirth. This can lead to premature birth and low birth weight.

Because one-third of pregnant teens do not receive adequate prenatal care, their babies are also more likely to have a low birth weight and childhood health problems, and to be hospitalized more often than those born to older mothers. The infant mortality rate for children born to teen mothers is about 50 percent higher than that for those born to women older than 20.

In general, teenage mothers don't do as well in life as people who wait and have children as adults. Their family incomes are lower, and they are more likely to be poor and receive welfare. They have less formal education and are less likely to be married. Their children may also have a harder time growing up, getting through school, and establishing successful lives of their own.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.