What does this measure?

The number of live births among females ages 15 to 19, expressed as a percentage of females in that age group.

Why is this important?

Not only can teenage pregnancy derail a young woman's life, it also has far-reaching effects on children. The children of teen mothers are at risk of a variety of developmental and health problems and are more likely to have lower school achievement or drop out of school. Daughters of teenage mothers are more likely to give birth as teenagers themselves and sons are more likely to be incarcerated.

How is the region performing?

In 2019, there were 11 live births per 1,000 teen females in the region, tied with the state rate (excluding New York City) of 11. Since 2000, the regional rate decreased 59% from 26 per 1,000, in line with the state trend. As of 2019, Sullivan County had the highest rate in the region (21), followed by Columbia (16). Rates were substantially lower in Putnam (2), followed by Dutchess (7).

Notes about the data

Rates do not represent a unique count of births--a female may have more than one live birth within a given year. Multiple births, such as twins or triplets, are counted as one live birth.