Statistics can be difficult to compile and it some instances they are conflicting and confusing. Teenage pregnancy statistics are somewhat difficult to examine because the sheer volume of information becomes difficult to compile and navigate through. In order to truly understand trends in teenage pregnancy rates, one must look at the data in its complete totality. In other words, in order to arrive at accurate assessments of teenage pregnancy statistics in the United States one must examine the statistics on a federal, local and state level as well as proper demographic information (specific ages of the mothers, financial status, education level, etc) must all be examined in order to truly get a clear picture of what type of information or statistical data is accurate.

Contrary to popular belief, according to most reviews of teenage pregnancy statistics, the number of teenagers who become pregnant has decreased dramatically in the past two decades. While this would appear, on the surface, that sexual activity among teenagers has decreased this is a completely inaccurate assessment. In fact, the sexual activity among teenagers has increased dramatically since the 1960’s. This, of course, begs the question as to why teenage pregnancy statistics reflect a decrease in pregnancy as opposed to an increase.

Factors That Have Reduced Teenage Pregnancy

There are a number of factors that have reduced the statistical rates of teenage pregnancy. Of all the factors, the introduction and availability of contraceptives have dramatically impacted the pregnancy rates among teenagers. Additionally, the legalization of abortion has somewhat skewed the statistics since abortion is not a preventive pregnancy procedure, but rather it is a termination procedure. The presence and availability of contraceptive devices alone is not enough to reduce teenage pregnancies, as there must be an understanding that contraceptives are absolutely imperative as a way of reducing pregnancies. Thanks in large part to the multitude of information channels that exist in the modern world; the message for the need to use contraceptives is delivered easily.

Another area that has helped reduce teenage pregnancy and has impacted teenage pregnancy statistics has been the advent of abstinence education programs. Brought forth by church groups and faith based organizations, abstinence programs have provided a reduction of sexual activity in some segments of the teenage population.

Teenage pregnancy will always remain a serious problem and it will always be part of the landscape of the world. The numbers and instances of it, however, will continue to decrease provided proper education of contraception and abstinence is continued.