Are Teens Placing Themselves at Greater Risk of Becoming Pregnant?

The Centers for Disease Control released a report this week that raises some concerns. "Teenagers in the United States: Sexual Activity, Contraceptive Use, and Childbearing" has generated attention in the media due to two findings in particular:

• A significant increase in the percent of female teenagers who had ever used periodic abstinence, or the “calendar rhythm” method
• 14% of females and 18% of males would be “a little pleased” or “very pleased” if they got (a partner) pregnant.

It isn't all bad news such as more teens are combining condoms with hormonal contraceptives, providing protection against both STDs and unwanted pregnancies.  However, the fact that attitudes among teens are relaxing about pregnancy should cause policymakers to stop and take notice.  Many reports in recent months have focused attention on the connections between teen births and low education, poverty and criminal justice involvement.

For state policies to reduce teen and unplanned pregnancies, please enter your email on our homepage and watch this space!