Addressing one of the most serious public health issues—the alarming rise in teenage pregnancies -- in Tamil Nadu, the state Directorate of Public Health (DPH) has initiated further studies into the growing instances in certain districts. This newly commissioned study will explore real-time, evidence-based causes of teenage pregnancies and identify potential prevention solutions, said a senior official at the DPH, Tamil Nadu.
A couple of weeks ago, the Department, had in a report released concerning findings regarding the alarming rise in teenage pregnancies among girls aged 13 to 19. Data collected from hospitals revealed that 62,870 teenagers were affected, with a cumulative teenage pregnancy rate of 1.3%.
The rates of teenage pregnancy in Tamil Nadu over the years have shown a gradual increase: 1.1% in 2019-20, 1.3% in 2020-21, 1.3% in 2021-22, 1.1% in 2022-23, and 1.5% in 2023-24. Among the districts, Nagapattinam has the highest rate at 3.3%, followed by Theni at 2.4%, and Perambalur at 2.3%. In contrast, districts like Kancheepuram, Virudhunagar, Nagercoil, and Chennai report the lowest teenage pregnancy rates, ranging from 0.4% to 0.7%.
According to the DPH report published in the Tamil Nadu Journal of Public Health and Medical Research, the latest findings confirm that teenage pregnancy remains a significant concern across the state’s districts.
“It is crucial to recognize that addressing teenage pregnancy requires a holistic approach. While existing interventions have made progress, there is a pressing need to enhance school-based sex education, improve behavioral change communication, and foster community participation. Active involvement from parents, communities, and other stakeholders will promote a more comprehensive and sustainable solution,” the report stated.
While Tamil Nadu grapples with the growing issue, the national situation is even more alarming. India contributes to nearly 11% of the world’s teenage pregnancies. Nationally, teenage pregnancies account for 8-14% of all pregnancies, with a fertility rate of 43 births per 1,000 women in the 15-19 age group, according to a study published in the Indian Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology Research.
The root causes of teenage pregnancy include early marriage, societal pressures, illiteracy, poverty, unmet sexual health needs, and a lack of awareness about reproductive health and contraception. Among females aged 15-19, pregnancy-related complications are the leading causes of mortality and disability-adjusted life years.
Teenage pregnancies not only pose serious maternal and fetal health risks but also negatively affect education, employment, and future opportunities. Social stigma, rejection, and violence from close family members further exacerbate the physical, emotional, and mental struggles faced by these young girls.
Tamil Nadu's latest study aims to provide a comprehensive investigation into the epidemiological and clinical feto-maternal outcomes associated with teenage pregnancy, offering a holistic understanding of the issue and potential solutions.
Teenage pregnancy is a global social and public health challenge that affects millions of girls worldwide, with long-lasting detrimental effects on their physical, emotional, and social well-being, as well as their educational and economic futures.