Adolescent pregnancy: a look at a complex phenomenon

Abstract

This article presents a selective and non-systematic literature review about the phenomenon of adolescent pregnancy. The text is organized along three themes: (a) risks and problems associated with adolescent pregnancy, (b) precursor factors related to pregnancy in adolescence, and (c) socio-cultural factors associated with the desire to become a mother in adolescence. Conclusions point out to the fact that adolescent pregnancy is an experience that can have both negative and positive consequences for adolescents. Additionally, the phenomenon highlights the need of interventions focused on adolescents' sexual and reproductive health.