Velisha Thompson of the City of Johannesburg writes:
The teenage pregnancy rate continues to increase and has become a growing problem for society. Local clinics are now inundated with pregnant teenage mothers in Alexandra and greater Johannesburg.
This is extremely concerning as teenagers are not ready physically, mentally or emotionally to have babies. Many teenagers are presenting with STIs (sexually transmitted infections) and unwanted pregnancies at the clinics.
The Department of Basic Education has also noted the increase in teenage pregnancies at schools, especially primary schools, in the last year. This could only mean that teenagers are having unprotected sex and are not taking care.
Teens should be behaving more responsibly and taking precautions. Those who are indulging in such acts are usually not performing well at school or do not excel in their grades. Abstain from sex until you have completed school and you are emotionally ready.
Having a baby at an early age prevents you from enjoying your teenage life to the full. You are prevented from having fun and going out with your friends, as you will be saddled with a baby. Babies are breastfed and will need you around all the time. Remember, even though it takes two to make a baby, it is usually the mother who ends up taking care of it – the father can still go out and enjoy his life.
Babies are a costly affair, they require clothing, baby milk, food and nappies. If you are going to use disposable nappies, be prepared to pay enormous amounts every month.
The contributing factors leading to teenage pregnancy are:
- Alcohol and drug abuse
- Poverty
- Peer pressure
- Low self-esteem
- Unprotected sex which can also predispose you to STIs.
Sexually transmitted infections are very common and should be a major concern to those who practice unsafe sex. An STI is a sickness that is passed from one person to another during a sexual encounter. A person should see a doctor or health professional immediately if there are any symptoms that present themselves, eg burning sensations when passing urine.
The highest incidence of STIs occurs among girls 15 to 19 years of age.
The Department of Basic Education has seen that schools where parents are actively involved in their children’s lives, have lower records of teenage pregnancies. Get to know what your children are up to and the friends that they keep.
