Cape Town is concerned about increase in teenage pregnancies

The City of Cape Town has expressed concern about the increase in teenage pregnancy numbers.

According to the city, 632 teenagers aged 12 to 17 visited antenatal clinics between June 2022 and July 2023.

This is an increase compared to 355 in the previous corresponding year.

The City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Patricia van der Ross, says society must not turn a blind eye to the fact that teenagers are sexually active.

“Besides the detrimental impact on growth, productivity, communities and families, a teen pregnancy disrupts the young mother’s education and puts her future at risk,” she said.

“Our girls have a bright future, and I want to encourage them to do everything they can to make healthy and informed choices.”

The Health department held a pregnancy awareness event in Wallacedene.

‘While the aim of the week is to reduce pregnancy-related complications and encourage women to visit a clinic, we cannot turn a blind eye to the fact that our girls are sexually active and there is an increase in teen pregnancies,’ added van der Ross.

 

     

                                   Picture: Pixabay

Done by: Alungile Njemla