Teen birth rates in Lubbock are plummeting, and even though the numbers continue to decrease, it’s important to keep it that way.
“People need to be aware of what’s happening because it is something we need to talk about,” said Ashley Ammons with Lubbock Area United Way.
Lubbock’s teen birth rates have been on the decline in the last 5 years.
“Use of contraception by teenagers. and perhaps to a lesser degree sex education counseling programs,” said Dr. Edward Yeomans, OB-GYN.
Lubbock’s rate is 34 per 1,000 people, which is slightly lower than the state average which is 35 per 1,000 teen births. Officials say more can still be done to keep lowering those numbers.
“We need to be able to be there to protect our children. Protect our community and if the community is aware that’s the only way we can begin doing that,” said Ammons.
Although it doesn’t happen to everyone, complications are a possibility when giving birth between the ages 15-19.
“The most pressing medical concern is the development of preeclampsia. It’s a high blood pressure disorder that is unique to pregnancy,” said Dr. Yeomans.
Babies could also be born premature, putting mothers at high risk of postpartum depression and more.
“With the babies of teen moms and dads, the likelihood of poverty is extremely high,” said Ammons.
Ammons also says teen birth is typically a cycle. The Lubbock United Way hopes to end the cycle.
“It’s not just that parents are purposely neglecting their children, it is also the fact that some just don’t know how to raise a children because they may have come from a teen parent themselves,” said Ammons.
If you’re interested in learning more about mentoring programs, you can go to Lubbock United Area Way’s website here.
