May is National Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month

 
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According to the Center for Disease Control here are some facts worth knowing:

  • In 2017, a total of 194,377 babies were born to mothers aged 15-19 in the United States

  • Birth rates have decreased by 7% from 2016 to 2017

  • It is suggested that the rates have fallen because teens are not engaging in sexual activity and that they are using birth control

One reason teen birth rates have decreased is because of evidence-based teen pregnancy prevention programs. Evidence-based means that the program was tested and produced significant results of preventing pregnancy. Evidence-based programs include sexuality education, youth development, abstinence education and clinic-based programs. FPS runs one of these evidence-based programs called Teen Outreach Program (TOP). TOP is for youth aged 12-18 and focuses on the social, mental and emotional health of teens.

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 The Teen Outreach Program includes:

  • 25 Meetings at various locations over a 32-week period

  • 20 hours of community service learning chosen by the youth

  • Lessons on:

    • Self-esteem

    • Values

    • Healthy Relationships

    • Social Influences

    • Sexual Health

    • Communication Skills

    • Goal Setting

    • Decision Making

    • Community Awareness


So why are pregnancy prevention programs so important?

  • Birth rates in the United States are still higher than other countries

  • 50% of teen moms will receive a high school diploma

  • Children of Teen moms sometimes have a harder time in school, may have health problems and / or may get into trouble more often

  • Prevention helps young people decide about when they want to become a parent

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FPS thinks these things are important for teens:

  • Support from parents and other trusted adults

  • Access to youth friendly health services, which we offer at Family Planning Syracuse

    • Female and male exams,

    • Pregnancy testing and counseling

    • Birth control options and counseling

    • Services at FPS are low to no cost and confidential for teens.

If you want more information about TOP or FPS or want to set up an appointment you can reach us at (315) 325-2010, we are here to help.

 

Josh Amidon