Clinic-Based Programs to Prevent Repeat Teen Pregnancy: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Adolescent Health
• Public Health Interventions

Background:

• Repeat teen pregnancy remains a significant public health concern.
• Effective clinical strategies are needed to support adolescents in preventing subsequent pregnancies.
• Existing evidence on clinic-based repeat teen pregnancy prevention programs requires synthesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and evaluate the evidence on the effectiveness of clinic-based repeat teen pregnancy prevention programs.
• To identify factors that facilitate or hinder the success of these programs.
• To inform the development of improved adolescent family planning services.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of multiple databases (January 1985-April 2016).
• Inclusion criteria focused on clinic-based programs, repeat teen pregnancy prevention, and specific outcomes (knowledge, contraceptive use, pregnancy rates).
• Quality assessment and evidence synthesis of included studies.

Main Results:

• Only five studies met the criteria for clinic-based repeat teen pregnancy prevention programs.
• Two studies reported positive effects, and two reported null effects on repeat pregnancy prevention.
• One study identified facilitators for engaging teen mothers in services.

Conclusions:

• Clinic-based programs for repeat teen pregnancy prevention have limited positively affecting factors.
• Immediate postpartum contraception and home visiting programs are potential strategies to reduce repeat teen pregnancy.
• Further research and implementation of targeted interventions are warranted.