In its enthusiasm over the decline, the nation must not ignore or write off the young people for whom pregnancy prevention has failed. Anecdotal stories that typify the dismal life circumstance of pregnant and parenting teens abound. Nearly one million American teens become pregnant each year. Approximately 50 percent of them become parents. Although they are two separate and distinct programs, they share overlapping target populations and a common goal of reducing the incidence of unintended pregnancies in the populations they serve through a combination of prevention-oriented education, social and reproductive health services.
Prevention remains an important concept in the care of pregnant and parenting teens.
These young parents require creative and varied responses that address the unique needs of adolescent parents and their families. Grantees include universities, hospitals, community agencies, public schools and health departments. Many employ home visiting services, and all have partnerships with community-based service agencies. Title X required services complement AFL required services. Because 20 percent of all teen pregnancies are repeat pregnancies, contraceptive services are particularly important to young mothers.