[Course and outcome of pregnancy in adolescents].

All pregnant women living in the district of Suhl were observed and delivered in our Department for Obstetrics and Gynaecology, County Hospital of Suhl. In a retrospective study, the course and outcome of 732 pregnancies in adolescents (less than or equal to 19 years) were analysed. In all women bearing to maturity, the course of delivery and the neonatal outcome were studied. All results were compared with those of an equal-sized group of women of 20-24 years of age. Out of the 732 adolescent pregnancies, nearly 62% gave birth; in 30% an artificial abortion was undertaken. In a subgroup of 179 adolescents aged less than 18 years, the rate of artificial abortion was 61.5%. Only 34% gave birth to a child. The course of pregnancy in adolescents was not more complicated as it was in older patients (comparison group). The rate of premature delivery was not increased and premature rupture of membranes was even rarer. During birth, there were no increased risks, the duration of birth being identical in both groups. In adolescents, there were a few more spontaneous deliveries. Body weights and neonatal conditions were the same as in the comparable group. Consequently, pregnancy in adolescents is not accompanied by increased risks for mother or child.