Teen Pregnancy

Goal: Saginaw County will reduce the teenage pregnancy rate to federal levels.

Measure

There are three measures: 1) rate of teen pregnancies per 1,000 female ages 15 to 19; 2) percentage of births to teens under the age of 20; and 3) percentage of repeat teen births ages 15 to 19.

Why This Indicator is Important

High teen pregnancy and birth rates remain a priority concern for Saginaw County. When teens have children, numerous medical and financial issues arise. Teen mothers are less likely to complete school, more likely to be single parents, and most live a life of poverty. In addition, daughters of teenage mothers are less likely to get early and regular prenatal care. Children of teen mothers are at a high risk for low‐birth weight, which could lead to serious health problems.

How Are We Doing?

Teen pregnancy rates increased in Saginaw County and have remained above 60 pregnancies per 1,000 females ages 15-19, about 5% to a high of 10% above the Michigan average and 20 to 25% above the National averages. The percentage of births to teens under 20 years of age remained at about 20%, twice the state average. The data also shows that 20 to 22% of women ages 15-19 in Saginaw County who have given birth will have a second birth.

How Can You Have An Impact?

  • Be interested in what interests your children.
  • Become a youth mentor.
  • Talk to youth about the importance of abstaining from sex or being responsible if sexually active.
  • Encourage other adults and parents to be part of the solution.
Picture
Home