Wicomico Co. Health Dept. highlights teen pregnancy prevention, offers resources to families

MARYLAND. – Teen pregnancy, talked about on shows like Teen Mom and 15 And Pregnant, is now being shown in a different light.

Community health educator with the Wicomico County Health Department, Alicia Miller, said the nation is on a downward trend of teen pregnancies because of education.

“Teaching about the risks of teen pregnancy is one part. We also need to educate about birth control and condoms, decision making and communication, and healthy relationships,” Miller said.

In order to tackle the problem, Miller said organizations, like the health department, need to work hand-in-hand with parents and guardians, to raise awareness on the risks of teen pregnancy. Through adolescent health programs, they’re able to help educate families.

“Providing this education [and] teaching these skills helps young people delay sex, prevent pregnancies and it gives them the tools they need to make healthy decisions for themselves,” Miller said.

With all of these preventative tools, Miller emphasized that teen pregnancy is not something to be ashamed of, and services are available through the health department, for families to better support their teens.

“Parents can take advantage of teachable moments; they can be there to coach young people through tough situations,” Miller said. “We provide information to parents and caregivers, to help to do those things and to help them feel more comfortable.”