Rates of teenage pregnancy in Scotland are among the highest in Western Europe, and according to latest information from Information Scotland (ISD), have remained steady for the past decade.

In 2005, there were 56.7 pregnancies for every 1000 women aged 15-19 and 7.1 for every 1000 girls aged 13-15.

Teenage pregnancy is closely linked to levels of deprivation. According to ISD, the most deprived groups of girls and young women have around ten times the rate of delivery as the least deprived, and twice the rate of abortion. Research by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation has shown that children in care and those leaving care have a much higher risk of teenage pregnancy. Young women who have felt unloved can feel that having a baby would give them a sense of purpose and allow them to experience unconditional love. But while teenage pregnancy is often perceived negatively, and can be the result of abuse or coercion, health professionals should recognise that it can be a positive choice for some young people.

Research by Family Planning Assoscitation (fpa) Scotland has found that young men often feel excluded from sexual health services, and it is important that they are part of discussions about pregnancy. Young fathers who feel excluded may need to be supported to allow them to become involved with the pregnancy, birth and fatherhood.