CoCT notes spike in teenage pregnancies: We can't ignore our sexually active girls - Health MEC
The city said the number of clinic visits for contraceptive services, as well as the number of female and male condoms distributed also took a significant dip.
Pregnancy / Pexels: João Paulo de Souza Oliveira
CAPE TOWN - The City of Cape Town's Department of Health has expressed concern over the increase in the number of teenage girls seen for their first antenatal visit.
The department says between July 2022 and June 2023, the number of teenagers aged between 12 and 17 who visited a clinic for their first antenatal visit was 632, compared to 355 in the previous corresponding year.
The city said the number of clinic visits for contraceptive services, as well as the number of female and male condoms distributed also took a significant dip.
Last week, a pregnancy awareness event was held in Wallacedene to observe Pregnancy Education Week and Condom and STI Awareness Week - both in February.
Community Services and Health MMC Patricia van der Ross is encouraging girls to take charge of their future.
“While the aim of the week is to reduce pregnancy-related complications and encourage women to visit a clinic, we cannot simply turn a blind eye to the fact that our girls are sexually active, and there is an increase in teen pregnancies. Our girls have a bright future and I want to encourage them to do everything that they can to make healthy and informed choices.”