Adolescent obstetrics.

Adolescent pregnancies are associated with a poorer outcome. These adverse outcomes may be correctable to some extent through social programs. When special efforts are made to meet the needs of a special group, better outcomes are noted. The adolescent is at greater risk for preeclampsia. Correction of this risk is doubtful until the etiology of preeclampsia is discovered. This condition gives the adolescent a greater risk of prematurity and low birthweight in her infant. Most of the other medical risks that have been noted seem to be minimally affected by age.