Menu
24/02/2010
Teen Pregnancy At 20-Year Low
Teenage pregnancies in the UK have fallen to their lowest rate in over 20 years, annual statistics published today show.
The 2008 Office of National Statistics conception research shows that, despite a slight rise in 2007, the action from the Government’s teenage pregnancy strategy has led to a decline in pregnancies among under 16 and 18-year-olds.
The rate of under 16-year-olds falling pregnant decreased by 5.7% between 2007 and 2008.
Since 1998 there has been a 13.3% reduction in the number of under 18s conceiving, and the figures also show reductions in more than 120 local authorities and at every age range.
England's under-18 conception rate for final quarter 2008 was 5.4% lower than the same quarter 2007 and is the lowest fourth quarter rate since 1993, showing promise for the 2009 data due next year.
Children’s Minister Dawn Primarolo said teenage pregnancy is no longer a rising problem.
"It is important that we recognise the progress made by many areas in driving down teenage pregnancy rates," she said.
"Last year’s increase was very disappointing so I am particularly pleased that today’s statistics put us back on track.
"Over the last 10 years information, advice and support for young people about sex and contraception has significantly improved. Sex and relationship education is being reformed and access to free contraception is now easier than ever before."
But Ms Primarolo this is not just an issues that should be tackled by Government.
"Parents have a vital role to play in providing information and advice on sex and relationships and helping their children understand the value of respecting themselves and others."
(PR/GK)
The 2008 Office of National Statistics conception research shows that, despite a slight rise in 2007, the action from the Government’s teenage pregnancy strategy has led to a decline in pregnancies among under 16 and 18-year-olds.
The rate of under 16-year-olds falling pregnant decreased by 5.7% between 2007 and 2008.
Since 1998 there has been a 13.3% reduction in the number of under 18s conceiving, and the figures also show reductions in more than 120 local authorities and at every age range.
England's under-18 conception rate for final quarter 2008 was 5.4% lower than the same quarter 2007 and is the lowest fourth quarter rate since 1993, showing promise for the 2009 data due next year.
Children’s Minister Dawn Primarolo said teenage pregnancy is no longer a rising problem.
"It is important that we recognise the progress made by many areas in driving down teenage pregnancy rates," she said.
"Last year’s increase was very disappointing so I am particularly pleased that today’s statistics put us back on track.
"Over the last 10 years information, advice and support for young people about sex and contraception has significantly improved. Sex and relationship education is being reformed and access to free contraception is now easier than ever before."
But Ms Primarolo this is not just an issues that should be tackled by Government.
"Parents have a vital role to play in providing information and advice on sex and relationships and helping their children understand the value of respecting themselves and others."
(PR/GK)
Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
26 February 2009
Rise In Teenage Pregnancies, Figures Show
The number of teenage pregnancies in England and Wales has risen by 6.4% in one year, according to new figures released today. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) showed the teen pregnancy rate was 42.6 girls per 1,000, from January to March 2007, while it was 42.7 for the period April to June.
Rise In Teenage Pregnancies, Figures Show
The number of teenage pregnancies in England and Wales has risen by 6.4% in one year, according to new figures released today. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) showed the teen pregnancy rate was 42.6 girls per 1,000, from January to March 2007, while it was 42.7 for the period April to June.
23 July 2010
Fifth Of Teens Pregnant At 18
One in five teenage girls has been pregnant at least once by the age of 18, according to the latest Government figures. The figures, from a Department of Education study of 8,500 teenagers, found that more than eight of ten boys and girls questioned said that they were sexually active by the time they turned 18.
Fifth Of Teens Pregnant At 18
One in five teenage girls has been pregnant at least once by the age of 18, according to the latest Government figures. The figures, from a Department of Education study of 8,500 teenagers, found that more than eight of ten boys and girls questioned said that they were sexually active by the time they turned 18.
19 October 2005
Lack of confidential teen sex advice ‘disastrous’
A lack of confidential sexual health advice for teenagers could be “disastrous”, a sexual health charity has warned. Jan Barlow, Chief Executive of Brook, warned that a massive increase in unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections could result if young people no longer had access to confidential advice.
Lack of confidential teen sex advice ‘disastrous’
A lack of confidential sexual health advice for teenagers could be “disastrous”, a sexual health charity has warned. Jan Barlow, Chief Executive of Brook, warned that a massive increase in unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections could result if young people no longer had access to confidential advice.
15 October 2004
Text messages used to remind women to take their pill
A special daily text message scheme to remind girls already using oral contraceptive to take their pill has been launched in Birmingham today. South Birmingham Primary Care Trust’s teenage pregnancy service is aimed at girls aged 15 to women of 25 – who register for the reminder service.
Text messages used to remind women to take their pill
A special daily text message scheme to remind girls already using oral contraceptive to take their pill has been launched in Birmingham today. South Birmingham Primary Care Trust’s teenage pregnancy service is aimed at girls aged 15 to women of 25 – who register for the reminder service.
26 February 2004
Teen alcohol abuse and pregnancy targeted by pilot scheme
A new drive to help reduce drug and alcohol abuse and teenage pregnancy in some of the country's most deprived areas has been announced today by Public Health Minister Melanie Johnson.
Teen alcohol abuse and pregnancy targeted by pilot scheme
A new drive to help reduce drug and alcohol abuse and teenage pregnancy in some of the country's most deprived areas has been announced today by Public Health Minister Melanie Johnson.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:After a dry start this morning rain will spread from the northwest across all parts. This afternoon will be dull with some patchy rain and drizzle. Becoming much milder through the afternoon. Maximum temperature 11 °C.Tonight:A cloudy evening and night with a little light rain or drizzle, perhaps some clear periods developing along the east coast. A very mild night everywhere. Minimum temperature 10 °C.
