Both unintended and unwanted pregnancies can have negative health, social, and psychological consequences. It is mainly results from lack of inconsistent or incorrect use of effective contraceptive methods. In the U.S 49% of pregnancies were unintended among those women aged 19 and younger, more than 4 out of 5 pregnancies were unintended. Unintended pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of problems for the mom and baby. In addition, such childbearing has been linked with a variety of social problems, including divorce, poverty, child abuse, and juvenile delinquency. In one study, unwanted children were found less likely to have had a secure family life. As adults they were more likely to engage in criminal behavior, be on welfare, and receive psychiatric services. Another found that children who were unintended by their mothers had lower self-esteem than their intended peers 23 years later.
There are preconception care which needs to be done for a woman to be in optimal health for childbearing including taking folic acid, maintaining a healthy diet and weight. These preconception cares cannot be done for unintended pregnancies.
Family planning efforts that can help reduce unintended pregnancy include increasing access to contraceptive. Increasing correct and consistent use of contraceptive methods overall among those who are sexually active but wish to delay or avoid pregnancy. Research also has focused on better understanding pregnancy intention and how it is measured. As one study suggests, “A better understanding of the multiple dimensions of unintended pregnancy also may lead to a better understanding of the consequences of these pregnancies.” (The measurement and meaning of unintended pregnancy. Perspect Sex Reprod Health. 2003;35(2):94–101.)
