ADOLESCENT PREGNANCY

Pregnancy in client under age 17.

Predisposing/precipitating factors are:

1. Poverty
2. Faulty family process
3. Sexual revolution
4. Early onset of menarche
5. Inadequate knowledge about reproductive health

Increases the risk of stillbirth, low birth weight infants, cephalopelvic disproportion and fetal deaths.

Increased risk for maternal complications such as hypertension, anemia, prolonged or premature labor, hemorrhage and infections.

Developmental tasks of adolescents which superimposed that of pregnancy are:

1. Establish sense of worth and a value system.
2. Establish a lasting relationship.
3. Parental independence.
4. Choosing a vocation.

Approach of prenatal health teaching should be directed and emphasized to their own health more than to that of the fetus inside them.

Adolescents should gain the usual 11-13kg (25-30lbs) recommended for all pregnant women; thus need to be reminded always of their nutritional needs.

Adolescents have strong need for peer companionship a great consideration for planning their activities and rest, childbirthing, plans for the baby, nutrition, post partal care.

Pelvic measurement should be taken early and carefully.