TÜRKİYE’DE ADÖLESAN GEBELİK İSTATİSTİKLERİNE GENEL BİR BAKIŞ

ABSTRACT

Adolescent pregnancy is a phenomenon that negatively affects an individual’s physical, psychological,

and social development, while also producing significant consequences for society and health policies.

In Turkey, pregnancies at a young age, particularly within the 15–19 age group, pose risks to both

maternal and child health. Major health risks associated with early motherhood include low birth

weight, preterm birth, pregnancy complications, and issues such as growth retardation in the child. In

addition, adolescent pregnancies can interrupt young girls’ educational trajectories and limit their

opportunities for social participation. Although adolescent pregnancy rates in Turkey have generally

declined over the years, high rates are still observed in certain regions. A regional analysis reveals that

rates of early-age childbirth are higher in the eastern and southeastern provinces, and risks increase

among young women living in rural areas and those of low socioeconomic status. This situation is

closely related to sociodemographic factors such as education level, income status, and access to

health services. Research emphasizes the importance of comprehensive health policies, community

awareness initiatives, and counseling services in preventing adolescent pregnancies. In regions where

early pregnancy is prevalent, targeted interventions can be supported by increasing young girls’ access

to education and health services, as well as through community awareness efforts. By presenting an

overview of adolescent pregnancies in Turkey, this study aims to provide a current database for future

policy development and intervention strategies.

Keywords: Adolescent pregnancy, Turkey, fertility, public