The development of programs for pregnant and parenting teens.

The impact of early pregnancy and parenting on adolescents is well documented, with its negative effects on achieving adequate education, job skills training, gainful employment and economic independence duly recognized. While current interest and resources focus on abstinence only programs as major pregnancy prevention initiatives, we are increasingly failing those young women who have chosen early parenthood as a life option. This article will describe the efforts of a large urban hospital to provide hospital-based comprehensive services to pregnant and parenting teens to reduce the negative consequences to them and their children, and to help them to become effective parents and lead healthy, productive lives.