Geneva, 23 April 2025 – The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued new guidelines aimed at reducing adolescent pregnancies, a leading cause of death among girls aged 15–19 globally. The recommendations call for urgent action to end child marriage, expand girls’ education, and improve access to sexual and reproductive health services.
Each year, more than 21 million adolescent girls in low- and middle-income countries become pregnant, with nearly half of these pregnancies unintended. Early pregnancy poses severe health risks, including higher rates of infections, preterm births, and complications from unsafe abortions. It also perpetuates cycles of poverty by disrupting education and limiting future employment opportunities.
Dr. Pascale Allotey, WHO Director of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, emphasized that early pregnancies often stem from systemic inequalities. “Ensuring girls stay in school, protecting them from violence, and providing access to rights-based health services are crucial to breaking this cycle,” she said.
Key Recommendations
- End Child Marriage – Laws should prohibit marriage under 18, and communities must be engaged to shift norms. Secondary education for girls could reduce child marriage by two-thirds.
- Expand Education & Economic Opportunities – Incentives such as scholarships and financial stipends should support girls’ school completion.
- Improve Access to Sexual & Reproductive Health Services – Adolescents need confidential, stigma-free healthcare, including contraception and safe abortion services.
- Comprehensive Sexuality Education – Teaching boys and girls about consent, contraception, and reproductive health helps delay sexual activity and reduce unintended pregnancies.
Progress & Persistent Challenges
Global adolescent birth rates have declined—from 1 in 15 girls giving birth before 20 two decades ago to 1 in 25 in 2021. However, disparities remain, with some regions seeing nearly 10% of adolescent girls giving birth annually.
Dr. Sheri Bastien, WHO Scientist for Adolescent Health, stressed that education and empowerment are key. “Girls must have the knowledge and agency to make informed choices about their bodies and futures,” she said.
The updated guidelines build on WHO’s 2011 recommendations, focusing on preventing child marriage and increasing contraceptive access. They align with broader efforts to promote gender equality and adolescent health.
WHO
