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Teenage pregnancy prevention: an Atlanta program.


 this article describes the Fulton County (Georgia) Health Department Teen Clinical Services Program, which has 3 goals: 1) to reduce unplanned teenage pregnancies in 3 high risk health service areas in Atlanta by providing sex education and access to contraception, 2) to improve the health and well-being of teeangers by offering periodic disease screening, and 3) to educate adolescents on their total health needs. Clinics are held in inner city community health centers and all services are confidential. An introductory health questionnaire is used to assess the areas of counseling to be emphasized in the initial interview. 65% of teenagers initially attending the clinic are sexually active, but only 60-65% have ever used birth control. The reasons for sexual behavior are explored during the initial interview and contraception and sexually transmitted diseases are reviewed. Teenagers who are not sexually active are encouraged to postpone sexual activity. Community outreach and education is another component of the program. Rap sessions are held during each clinic session and peer counselors work as liaisons between the schools, community, and Teen Services Program. Peer counseling is believed to facilitate feelings of acceptance and support. In 1 of the high risk areas served by the program, the adolescent birth rate fell 17% in 1979-82. 94% of clients who accepted contraception returned and maintained contraception for 1 year. Approximately 20% of participants in the program are male. This experience suggests that this type of program is effective and should be expanded to other areas of the US.
