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The Johns Hopkins Adolescent Pregnancy Program: an evaluation
Obstetrics and Gynecology
|March 1, 1987
Summary
The Johns Hopkins Adolescent Pregnancy Program improved pregnancy outcomes for teens, reducing complications and perinatal mortality. Younger participants, despite later care entry, had healthier infant birth weights.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics
- Adolescent Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Adolescent pregnancy presents unique health challenges.
- Comprehensive care models are needed to improve outcomes for pregnant adolescents.
- The Johns Hopkins Adolescent Pregnancy Program aimed to address these needs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the obstetric component of the Johns Hopkins Adolescent Pregnancy Program.
- To compare pregnancy outcomes of program enrollees with a control group.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of intensive psychosocial support and patient education.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective comparison of adolescent deliveries between 1976-1981.
- Program enrollees received comprehensive care including psychosocial support and case management.
- Control group received standard prenatal care in similar facilities.
Main Results:
- Program enrollees experienced fewer pregnancy complications and lower perinatal mortality.
- Birth weight below 2500g was 9.9% for program adolescents vs. 16.4% for controls (1979-1981).
- Younger adolescents (≤14 years) in the program had higher average infant birth weights.
Conclusions:
- Comprehensive, team-based care improves obstetric outcomes for adolescents.
- Intensive psychosocial support and patient education are critical components.
- Even with delayed care entry, younger adolescents can achieve positive birth outcomes.