[Adolescence and pregnancy in Guadeloupe. 184 cases]

Maternal pregnancy complications and pregnancy outcomes of all adolescent pregnancies (< 18 years; n = 184) during a two year survey (1993-1994) at the Maternity of University Hospital of Pointe-á-Pitre, Guadeloupe, French West Indies, were compared to that of an older cohort (20-35 years; n = 3938). there were no statistical differences between the two groups in obstetrical complications (infections, hypertension, fetal deaths), birthweight, gestational age at delivery or apgar scores at birth. Adolescents were more likely to have mechanical extractions (forceps, vacuum) and less cesarean sections although differences were not significant. On the other hand, prenatal care was significantly poorer in adolescents. These results are in accordance with the literature. It remains that the adolescent pregnancy rate is higher in Guadeloupe as compared to Europe or mainland France. Although these data do not suggest an elevated reproductive health risk for adolescents, it does inflict a social burden of decreased potential for productivity.