Repeat Pregnancies Among Teenagers On The Rise, Says CPD

Teenage pregnancy has been a long-standing concern in the country, but recent reports indicate an alarming rise in repeat pregnancies among teen mothers. According to the Commission on Population and Development (CPD), over 22,000 teenage girls aged 13 to 15 have experienced multiple pregnancies.

A disturbing trend on teen pregnancy

“Na-alarma kami ngayon… Kasi more than 22,000 yung repeat pregnancy. Ibig sabihin, nabuntis na, tapos nabuntis ulit ng second, third, and fourth time,” said CPD Acting Knowledge, Management, and Communications Division Chief Mylin Mirasol Quiray during a public briefing as reported on GMA News.

The data gathered by the CPD highlights a worrying trend where young girls, some as young as 13, are getting pregnant again after their initial pregnancy. This increase has been attributed to several factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic and cultural norms.

“Factor ang pandemic, pero ang factor kasi talaga is cultural. Usually, pag nabubuntis sa community, pinagsasama ang nakabuntis at nabuntis na kabataan,” Quiray added.

Cutural and social factors

The cultural practice of cohabitation between teenage mothers and their partners significantly increases the likelihood of subsequent pregnancies. This practice often places young girls in vulnerable situations, especially when their partners are significantly older.

“Anecdotal or qualitative data showed that the girl and the man who got her pregnant are made to live in one house so the chance for the girl to get pregnant again is very high,” Quiray stressed.

Furthermore, data shows that most of the men who got the girls pregnant are their seniors. “Most of those who got these girls pregnant are senior citizens so there is unequal power relations here. When you are in a relationship with someone older than you, what happens is that the latter is seen as the one powerful, and the younger one doesn’t have a voice, and that is alarming,” Quiray explained.

Addressing the issue

The CPD has called for immediate action to curb this alarming trend. They are advocating for the implementation of social protection programs for adolescent mothers and their children, as well as the passage of the Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Bill.

“Pregnant teenagers must be provided with social protection,” Quiray emphasized. “As much as possible, we do not want the girl and her partner to cohabitate. Or if they really have to be together, they should also practice family planning.”

Quiray also pointed out the need for parental consent for young mothers to access family planning services. This step is crucial to ensure that teenage mothers can make informed choices about their reproductive health.

Guiding teens on safe sex

It is essential for parents and guardians to guide their teenage children on safe sex practices to prevent early and repeat pregnancies. Here are a few simple tips:

Open communication: Establish an open line of communication with your teen and encourage them to ask questions and express their concerns about relationships and sexual health.

Educate them: Provide your teens with comprehensive sex education that covers contraception, the risks of early pregnancies, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Give them access to resources: Ensure that your child has access to reliable information and resources about sexual health. This can include counseling services, healthcare providers, and educational materials.

Support them: Always offer unconditional support and understanding. Teenage pregnancies can be emotionally challenging, and your support can make a significant difference in your teen’s ability to make responsible decisions.

Encourage delayed sexual activity: Talk to your teen about the benefits of delaying sexual activity until they are older and more mature.

Model healthy relationships: Show your child what healthy, respectful relationships look like. This can help your teen set their standards and expectations for your relationships.

By addressing these issues head-on and providing the necessary support and education, parents can play a crucial role in reducing the rates of teenage pregnancies and ensuring a healthier future for their children.

Read here for an expert’s insights on sex ed for your child.