Jul 30 2009
Teenage Poverty and Depression May Lead to Pregnancy
It is understandable that a pregnant teenager might suffer from depression. But is depression a result of the pregnancy, or is the pregnancy a sign of previous depression. An article in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior concludes that the pregnancy is a result of depression, but only in those living in low income households.
A study was conducted in the United States and followed thousands of teenage girls and young women, asking questions regarding stress and daily life. The results found that teens who lived in poverty had a higher risk of teen pregnancy due to depression than teens above the poverty level.
If a young teenager living in poverty is depressed, this does not necessarily indicate she will become pregnant. Rather, it shows this young woman is at greater risk for teenage pregnancy. This information can help adults, teachers and physicians to identify which teens might require specialized care to help avoid a teen pregnancy.
If you know a teenage girl who comes from a poor family, try to mentor her by building her self esteem. Help her to focus on long term goals and talk to her care giver if you believe she is showing signs of sadness or depression.
A recent article has been written in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology that suggests increased doses of oxytocin be avoided at intervals less than 30 minutes apart. It is suggested that as oxytocin use is decreased among women in labor, emergency cesareans significantly decrease as well. 



