Objectives: To provide lifetime estimates of intimate partner victimization among pregnant adolescents and examine associations between victimization and health risk behaviors identified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as leading causes of adolescent morbidity and mortality.
Methods: Participants (n = 1233) were predominantly Latina (58%) and non-Latina Black (34%) pregnant adolescents (aged 14-21 years) enrolled in a randomized controlled trial of group prenatal care in 14 clinical sites in New York City (2008-2012). They completed surveys to assess interpersonal victimization and risk behaviors: substance use, risky sexual behaviors, injuries or violence, unhealthy dietary behavior, and inadequate physical activity.
Results: Fifty-two percent reported intimate partner victimization, which was associated with nearly all health risk behaviors.
Conclusions: Pregnant adolescents who experienced intimate partner victimization were significantly more likely to engage in health risk behaviors, which can have adverse health consequences. Expanded prevention programs tailored to specific needs of pregnant adolescents are needed. Health care providers and others who work with pregnant adolescents should consistently screen for and intervene in intimate partner victimization.