What is the main concern related to pregnant teens regarding their birth outcomes?

The main concern related to pregnant teens regarding their birth outcomes is the higher rate of low birth weight babies. This issue stems from various factors that often affect adolescent pregnancies, including inadequate prenatal care, poor nutrition, and socioeconomic challenges. Teen mothers may face unique lifestyle challenges that can contribute to less optimal health conditions during pregnancy, such as limited access to healthy foods and healthcare resources, which can directly impact fetal growth.

Low birth weight is associated with several health risks for the infant, including a higher likelihood of neonatal complications, developmental delays, and increased risk of chronic conditions later in life. Research consistently shows that infants born to adolescent mothers are more likely to weigh less than 5.5 pounds at birth, highlighting why this is a critical concern in evaluating birth outcomes for pregnant teens.