MALOLJETNIČKE TRUDNOĆE U REPUBLICI HRVATSKOJ
TEENAGE PREGNANCIES IN THE REPUBLIC OF CROATIA

Summary/Abstract: Young girls during puberty are exposed to numerous challenges, one of which is underage and unwanted pregnancy, for which girls at that developmental age are most often not ready. Pregnancy is a physiological process of fetal development in the mother's body, as well as a completely new physiological state of the woman's body that is accompanied by numerous anatomical and functional changes and can represent a major turning point in a woman's life, especially if it occurs in a girl under 18 years of age. Premature sexual intercourse in adolescence is the most important factor in the high rate of underage pregnancies, which is confirmed by the results of numerous studies, so the average age of young people in Croatia who engage in sexual intercourse is between 16 and 17 years. Underage pregnancies are often unplanned and uncontrolled and therefore require special care and attention. In addition to premature sexual intercourse, there is often pressure from family and society to marry, as well as various forms of violent behavior, which ultimately results in dropping out of school and lack of education. In accordance with the above problem and risks, the support of family, community and partners is certainly indispensable, as well as the development of new strategic and educational programs, as well as the involvement of numerous organizations and institutions for the support, development and counseling of young people. Unwanted pregnancy, especially among minors, represents a complex social, health and psychological problem that has long-term consequences for individuals, families and the wider community.

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