Early childbearing in Guatemala: a continuing challenge.

Childbearing during adolescence is recognized worldwide as a factor with a profound impact on the well-being and reproductive health and rights of young women and on a countrys overall pace and direction of development. In Guatemala where limited resources shape the lives of many young people even without the added burden of parenthood addressing the health and social consequences of high levels of adolescent childbearing is critical. Understanding the context and consequences of adolescent sexual and reproductive behavior is important for several reasons. For instance young people make up a very large proportion of Guatemalas population: An estimated one-quarter of Guatemalans are aged 10-19. The consequences of the life choices that these young people make will resonate through Guatemalan society for many years to come. In addition the timing of union formation and motherhood has lifelong implications for young women and consequences for the countrys economic and social development. If young women in Guatemala are to play an active role in that development and prepare themselves adequately for their future they need education and training--needs that often go unmet if at an early age they assume the responsibilities of being in a union and becoming a mother. (excerpt)