TEENAGE PREGNANCY IN THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Teenage pregnancy refers to when a girl under the age of 20 becomes pregnant. It's typically defined as a pregnancy that occurs in adolescence, which is the period between childhood and adulthood, generally ranging from ages 13 to 19. Teenage pregnancy can happen for a variety of reasons, including lack of access to sexual education, limited contraception use, peer pressure, and sometimes even coercion or abuse. It can lead to various challenges for both the young mother and the child, including:
1. Health risks: Teen mothers are more likely to experience complications during pregnancy and childbirth, such as preeclampsia, premature birth, or low birth weight.
2. Emotional and psychological effects: The pressures of raising a child at a young age can lead to mental health challenges for teenage mothers.
3. Educational and financial impacts: Teen pregnancy often disrupts a young person's education and can lead to economic hardship if the mother is unable to complete school or gain stable employment.
4. Social stigma: Teenage mothers may face judgment or discrimination from society, which can affect their self-esteem and mental well-being.