The Prevalence of Sexually Transmitted Infections on Teen Pregnancies and Their Association With Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes [100

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Based on our population data, the teen pregnancy rate and the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) reported during pregnancy are worrisome. Sexually transmitted infections appear to pose a threat to pregnancy outcomes including preterm birth, neonatal low birth weight, and premature rupture of membranes (PROM). The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of STIs in pregnant teens and the association of this variable to adverse pregnancy outcomes. METHODS: We performed a cross-sectional study to assess the prevalence of STIs among pregnant teens during a 4-year period at our institution. Birth outcomes such as gestational age at delivery, PROM, and neonatal low birth weight were analyzed and compared with adults. RESULTS: In the four years of our study, teen pregnancy rate fluctuated from 21.7% in 2010 to 16.8% in 2013. The rate of STIs for adult and teen pregnancies was similar, 21% and 23%, respectively. Chlamydia was the most common STI (67.3%) for both groups. Preterm birth was more prevalent among adults affected with STIs than teens, 13.8% and 11.5%, respectively. Neonatal low birth weight was similar among teens and adults with STIs. Premature rupture of membranes complicated 9.1% of teen pregnancies with STIs, compared to 6.7% in adults. CONCLUSION: There was no significant correlation between the STIs and adverse pregnancy outcomes on teen pregnancies for our population, except for PROM. This age group is associated with high-risk sexual behavior and poor adherence to treatment. They would benefit from efforts to prevent unintended pregnancies and infectious diseases.