Title Adolescent pregnancies and perinatal mental health - needs and complex support options: a literature review /
Authors Lesinskienė, Sigita ; Andruškevič, Justina ; Butvilaitė, Agnė
DOI 10.3390/jcm14072334
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Is Part of Journal of clinical medicine.. Basel : MDPI. 2025, vol. 14, iss. 7, art. no. 2334, p. [1-18].. eISSN 2077-0383
Keywords [eng] adolescent pregnancy ; mental health ; complex needs ; support options
Abstract [eng] Adolescent pregnancy remains a global issue, demanding comprehensive, longterm solutions. Despite declining rates, early pregnancy leads to severe physical and mental health risks along with increased mortality. Therefore, adolescent pregnancy requires urgent global action. This literature review evaluates pregnant adolescents’ psychological health issues, explores their needs, and investigates interdisciplinary approaches to enhance mental and physical health support. Studies show that dolescent pregnancy poses significant mental health risks and is associated with high rates of depression, suicidal ideation, low self-esteem, substance use, and anxiety. Co-occurring hardships further worsen psychological well-being. Found data indicated that the main needs of pregnant adolescents were adequate sexual and reproductive health; legal rights; high-quality, accessible healthcare; and socioeconomic support. The included references revealed several interventions and recommendations for supporting pregnant adolescents while highlighting challenges in the current framework. Pregnant adolescents face diverse gaps in current support systems. Further research is needed addressing social services, reproductive health consultations, and mental health support. Greater emphasis on multidisciplinary approaches and examples of effective support strategies is crucial to creating a nurturing environment and securing the well-being of pregnant adolescents.
Published Basel : MDPI
Type Journal article
Language English
Publication date 2025
CC license CC license description