Why is the infant death rate higher for teenage mothers?
Teenage mothers are less likely to gain adequate weight during their pregnancy, leading to low birth weight, which is associated with infant and childhood disorders and a high rate of infant mortality. Teenagers are less likely to maintain adequate nutrition during pregnancy. They are also more likely to smoke, drink or take drugs during pregnancy, which can cause health problems for the baby. Teenage mothers are less likely to seek regular prenatal care, which is essential for monitoring the growth of the fetus.
