Last updated: May 15, 2024
Presented by Crestwood General | crestwoodgeneral.com

Quick Summary

Teen birth rates in the United States have dropped significantly since 1991
Even with this progress, the U.S. still has higher teen birth rates than many other wealthy countries
Teen pregnancy rates are not the same for everyone — they vary by race, ethnicity, location, and income level

What Is Teen Pregnancy?

Teen pregnancy refers to pregnancy in females ages 15 to 19 years. It is measured as the number of births per 1,000 girls in this age group.

Teen pregnancy can affect a young person's health, education, and future opportunities. Supporting teens with accurate information, access to healthcare, and strong community resources helps promote healthy outcomes for young parents and their children.

The Good News: Teen Birth Rates Are Going Down

Progress Over Time

Since 1991, the U.S. teen birth rate has dropped by 78%
In 2021, the rate was 14 births per 1,000 females ages 15–19 — a record low
This was a 7% decrease from 2020

Why Are Rates Declining?

Research suggests two main reasons:
- More teens are choosing to wait before having sex
- More sexually active teens are using birth control effectively

These positive trends show that education, access to healthcare, and open conversations about reproductive health make a difference.

Where We Still Have Work to Do

The U.S. Compared to Other Countries

Even though teen birth rates are falling, the United States still has higher rates than many other high-income countries. This suggests there is room for continued improvement in prevention, education, and access to care.

Not Everyone Is Affected Equally

Teen birth rates vary widely across different groups. Understanding these differences helps us target support where it is needed most.

Teen Birth Rates by Race and Ethnicity (2021 Data)

Group	Births per 1,000 Females Ages 15–19
Non-Hispanic American Indian/Alaska Native	24
Non-Hispanic Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander	22
Non-Hispanic Black	22
Hispanic	21
Non-Hispanic White	9
Non-Hispanic Asian	2

These differences reflect broader social and economic patterns, not biology. Factors like access to healthcare, education quality, community resources, and experiences of discrimination all play a role.

Geographic and Social Factors That Matter

Location Matters

Teen birth rates differ:
- Between states and regions
- Between urban, suburban, and rural communities
- Within neighborhoods of the same city

Who Is at Higher Risk?

Some teens face greater challenges that can increase the likelihood of pregnancy:
- Teens who have been in foster care
- Teens living in communities with high unemployment
- Teens in areas with limited access to quality education or healthcare
- Teens from low-income households

Social Determinants of Health

Conditions where people live, learn, work, and play affect health outcomes. For teen pregnancy, key factors include:
- Access to affordable, confidential reproductive healthcare
- Quality sex education in schools
- Economic opportunity and stability
- Supportive family and community environments

Addressing these root causes is essential for reducing disparities and supporting all teens in reaching their goals.

How Can We Support Teens?

For Parents and Guardians

Start age-appropriate conversations about relationships, consent, and reproductive health early
Listen without judgment and keep communication open
Help teens connect with trusted healthcare providers
Support educational and career goals

For Healthcare Providers

Offer confidential, youth-friendly reproductive health services
Provide a full range of birth control options and clear information about how to use them
Screen for social needs and connect patients with community resources
Use trauma-informed, culturally respectful care

For Schools and Communities

Implement evidence-based sex education programs
Create safe, supportive environments for all students
Partner with local health centers to expand access to care
Address barriers like transportation, cost, or stigma

For Teens

Learn about your body, your options, and your rights
Ask questions — there are no silly questions when it comes to your health
Seek care from providers you trust
Remember: your future goals matter, and support is available

What CDC Is Doing

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention works to improve adolescent reproductive health through:

Supporting Quality Care

CDC backs the Quality and Access for Reproductive Health Equity (QARE) for Teens project, led by the National Association of Community Health Centers and Cicatelli Associates. This initiative helps health centers:
- Follow best practices for adolescent reproductive care
- Expand access to birth control and STI services
- Reduce barriers for teens from underserved communities

Providing Data and Tools

Tracking teen birth trends to identify where support is needed
Sharing evidence-based strategies for prevention
Offering free resources for providers, educators, and families

Advancing Health Equity

CDC focuses on reducing disparities by addressing the social and structural factors that affect teen pregnancy rates across different communities.

Resources for More Information

For Teens and Families

Talk to a healthcare provider about birth control, STI testing, and reproductive health
Visit CDC's Teen Pregnancy page for science-based information
Explore confidential services through local health departments or school-based clinics

For Providers and Educators

CDC's Adolescent Reproductive Health resources
Training materials on youth-friendly care and effective communication
Data tools to assess community needs and track progress

For Community Leaders

Strategies for building supportive environments for teens
Guidance on implementing evidence-based prevention programs
Partnerships to connect youth with healthcare, education, and mentorship

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does teen pregnancy still matter if rates are falling?

Progress is encouraging, but every teen deserves the support they need to plan their future. Continued attention helps ensure all young people — regardless of background — can access care and opportunities.

Can teen parents still achieve their goals?

Absolutely. With support from family, schools, healthcare providers, and communities, teen parents can continue their education, build careers, and raise healthy children. Early, nonjudgmental support makes a significant difference.

What is the most effective way to prevent teen pregnancy?

Research shows that a combination works best: comprehensive sex education, easy access to a full range of birth control methods, supportive adult relationships, and opportunities for education and employment.

How can I find confidential reproductive health services?

Many community health centers, Planned Parenthood locations, and school-based clinics offer confidential care for teens. You can also call your local health department or visit CDC's resource finder for help locating services near you.

Is birth control safe for teens?

Yes. When used as directed, FDA-approved birth control methods are safe and effective for adolescents. A healthcare provider can help teens choose the option that best fits their health needs and lifestyle.

Take the Next Step

At Crestwood General, we believe every young person deserves accurate information, respectful care, and the support they need to make informed decisions about their health and future.

If you or someone you care about has questions about reproductive health, birth control, or accessing services, we are here to help.

Visit crestwoodgeneral.com to learn more about our patient resources, schedule a confidential consultation, or connect with a care team member.

Your health. Your future. Your choice.