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Teenage pregnancy rates fall as over-40s rates rise

28/02/2008

Sexual health campaigners have welcomed a fall in the number of teenage pregnancies during 2006.

Figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show the conception rate for 15- to 17-year-olds fell from 41.4 conceptions per 1,000 girls in 2005 to 40.7 in 2006.

And in the 13- to 15-year-old age group the conception rate was 7.7 conceptions per 1,000 girls in 2006 compared to 7.8 in 2005.

Meanwhile the ONS also revealed that the overall conception rate rose fastest in the over-40 age group, by over six per cent from 11.5 per 1,000 women aged 40 to 44 in 2005 to 12.2 in 2006.

Statistics show that conceptions outside of marriage have increased from 47 per cent in 1995 to 56 per cent in 2006.

The ONS says much of this increase was in conceptions where both the maternity and conception were outside marriage but the birth was registered by both parents.

Commenting on today's figures, the sexual health charity Brook said it is "delighted" the teenage pregnancy rate continues to fall.

"This confirms that we now understand the important measures that must be in place in all areas to reduce the teenage pregnancy rate and are improving the consistency with which we implement them," a statement said.

Julie Bentley, chief executive officer of the FPA (Family Planning Association), added: "It's encouraging to see another decrease in teenage pregnancy.

"This demonstrates that the strategy of providing dedicated sexual health services, along with specialised educational and community support for young people, is the right approach to bring down pregnancy rates in the under-18s.

"However, the most important component still missing is comprehensive and statutory sex and relationships education. This is essential in raising the standards of sexual health of all young people in the UK. Without it, success will only go so far."