The Abuelas y Jovenes Project, funded by CSAP, enrolled 229 Philadelphia teenage girls who were: 18 or younger; pregnant or had a child in the last 18 months; and eligible or participate in TANF. The frequency and type of service data from case managers were used with survey data to evaluate the program's effectiveness in reducing repeat pregnancies and STD infection, and increasing contraception use and family planning services. 68% (n=114) of treatment group teens completed a six-month survey. Service data indicate that teens completing a six-month survey received a mean of 7.1 service hours (range: 0-42, median: 23) in the first six months. Several behavioral differences were found at the 6 month point; at baseline, 40% of the teens did not use any contraceptive method at last sex; significantly fewer teens, 22%, reported not using any method at six months. Although not significantly, STD incidences and substance use before last sex decreased while use of family planning services increased. After merging the service data with the survey data, it was found that number of service hours received did not effect the outcome measures at six months. Logistic regression results indicate that school attendance and use of family planning services were significant factors affecting positive use of contraception. Number of partners and use of marijuana were significant factors affecting STD infection. The first six months was spent mostly in case management assessment and planning rather than focused counseling. Additional analysis will explore the relationship between service focus and reproductive health.
Learning Objectives: After this presentation, participants will be able to: 1. Understand the variables significant to positive reproductive health outcomes among pregnant or parenting teenagers. 2. Assess the effect of case management services on reproductive health among pregnant and parenting teenagers.
Keywords: Reproductive Health, Adolescent Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.