Teenage pregnancy is a concern for many as it threatens the health and well-being of the individuals involved. Pregnancy consists of many health issues and complications even for adults in good shape.
It can be especially challenging for someone who is not mentally or physically prepared for pregnancy or motherhood to go through such a situation. It is important to educate youngsters about the possible risks and guide them on the right path to make conscious choices about their bodies and lives.
Health Risks Of Teenage Pregnancy
➜ High Blood Pressure
Hypertension is a common condition that is experienced by pregnant teens. During pregnancy body undergoes several changes for the development of the fetus. Elevated blood pressure levels affect the growth and development of the child as well as the health of the mother.
Major damage could occur to organs like the liver and kidney due to high blood pressure and this condition is known as preeclampsia. Additionally, the possibility of gestational hypertension is also common during teenage pregnancy which could lead to chronic hypertension later in life.
➜ Preterm Birth
Teenage mothers have an increased risk of giving premature birth when compared to others. A combination of factors could contribute to this including a lack of prenatal care, biological factors, and health conditions.
Babies that are born before the completion of the pregnancy period of 37-42 weeks might face certain health challenges and developmental issues.
➜ Low Birth Weight
Another common concern associated with teen pregnancies is low birth weight babies. Pregnancy is a period that requires constant care and attention to ensure the development and health of the fetus.
Lack of proper nutrition, medical care, and awareness could potentially impact the growth of the baby contributing to low birth weight. Additionally, the teenage in itself is a period of growth and due to the lack of physical maturity, the pregnancy might be affected.
➜ Anemia
Pregnant teenagers have an increased risk of anemia as it is a struggle to maintain the nutritional requirements for both mother and baby. If a pregnant teen is not getting the necessary iron in their diet it could cause anemia that affects a healthy pregnancy.
Moreover, teenagers are at higher risk of anemia as they lose blood due to menstruation which exacerbates the problem.
➜ Mental Health Issues
Teenage pregnancies are no walk in the park as there is so much stigma surrounding it. Teenage is a fragile phase where one develops physically as well as mentally.
Dealing with pregnancy and the health issues associated with it could dampen the spirit of a teenager leading to severe mental health issues.
Pregnancy and motherhood are very demanding in nature and meeting such demands at a very young age without necessary support and care can take a toll on one’s mental health.
➜ Gestational Diabetes
Pregnant teenagers are at higher risk of developing gestational diabetes. It is a condition where the blood sugar levels elevate during pregnancy which could pose severe complications.
The hormonal fluctuations and lack of physical development contribute to this condition in teenagers. This condition could complicate the pregnancy period and could jeopardize the health of both mother and baby.
➜ Ectopic pregnancy
It is a condition where the fertilized egg starts growing outside the uterus most commonly in the fallopian tube. Teenage is the period when the reproductive system is developing and becoming functional increasing the chances of ectopic pregnancies.
It is a serious medical condition that could result in internal bleeding and possible damage to the fallopian tube. Teenagers might not be aware of the condition and the delay in getting professional help could result in immense danger.
➜ Childbirth Complications
Complications during childbirth are often unpredictable and vary in severity. Pregnant teenagers have an increased risk of childbirth complications as the body is not fully prepared to handle such a complex process.
Underdeveloped reproductive systems, smaller pelvic size, and lack of proper prenatal care could all result in complications during childbirth. Additionally, the stress and anxiety they might experience worsen their condition and health and affect the overall childbirth experience.
Conclusion
Teenage is a complicated phase where the body is developing and gaining emotional and physical maturity. During such a vulnerable period having to deal with pregnancy and the health issues associated with it is challenging. Educating and informing your teenager about the possible complications and health issues could help them to make healthy decisions about their body and life.
