In California, the teen pregnancy rate has declined, but it is still four-to-twelve times higher than France, Spain, Italy and the Netherlands. The United States teen birth rate is eight times higher than other industrialized countries. 

    Why is this a problem? The social and economic impact of teen motherhood is enormous. About 70% of teen mothers drop out of high school and only 2% will graduate from college. The annual public cost of teen motherhood is $1.7 million and the cost to society is $3.8 billion.

    Numerous studies have shown that the most effective ways to reduce the rate of teen pregnancy is education and contraception. Yet only about 35% of parents have spoken with their teens about birth control and how to say no to social pressure to have sex.

    Planned Parenthood has many resources for parents who want to become their teen’s primary resource for information about sexuality. We offer free brochures and information online, as well as low-to-no-cost classes. Planned Parenthood provides medically accurate information as well as exercises that help parents develop an approach that’s in accordance with their family values. While some parents fear that talking about sexuality will encourage sexual activity, studies show the opposite. Teens who talk to their parents are more likely to delay sex.

    Though only 6% of the patients at Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest are under 18 years old, many come with their parents to our health centers to discuss birth control. Some teens are already sexually active; others just want information about how to protect themselves when the time comes. Planned Parenthood is here for families.

    Finally, Planned Parenthood is in the community supporting teen mothers. Every week, our Teen Success program offers support to young mothers who want to delay a second pregnancy until they complete their education. The program provides information about career development, healthy relationships, anatomy and physiology, and more. We know teen mothers have a tough road and want to empower them with the education and skills they need to overcome life’s challenges.

    May is Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month across the United States. But at Planned Parenthood, we work every month to help reduce the rate of teen pregnancy.

Chrissy Cmorik is the Community Education Manager for Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest.