The national Department of Health says while the number of adolescent pregnancies remain a concern, it has been on a downward trend following an increase during the Covid-19 pandemic and there is no “surge in teenage pregnancy”.

The department reported 1 448 births in public health facilities on January 1, 2025, down from 1 703 last year. The number of teenage mothers also decreased from 190 to just over 80.

Debate was sparked about young girls giving birth after it was reported that a 12-year-old Eastern Cape girl was among the mothers who gave birth on New Year's Day.

Department spokesperson Foster Mohale said that adolescent pregnancies are on a downward trend following an increase during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The numbers remain high, so intervention is required, but it is incorrect to talk about a surge in teenage pregnancy,” Mohale said.

Mohale explained that healthcare workers prioritise providing care to all pregnant women, including adolescent girls.

They are also legally required to report pregnancies in girls younger than 16 under Section 110 of the Children’s Act.

“These cases can be reported to the Department of Social Development, SAPS, or a designated child protection organisation,” he added.

Adolescents can access contraceptives without parental consent from the age of 12, and all primary healthcare facilities offer youth-friendly contraceptive services.

However, Mohale acknowledged challenges.

“Adolescents may find it difficult to access these services for practical reasons, such as facilities only being open during working hours, or due to real or perceived stigma associated with accessing these services,” he said.

Mohale added that the Department of Basic Education is implementing Comprehensive Sexuality Education to provide pupils with accurate information about sexual and reproductive health.

“The Department of Health has played a supportive role in the development of the curriculum and materials. Information is also provided by healthcare workers and through other Department of Health and partner platforms.”

Dr Imraan Keeka, DA spokesperson on health, said that healthcare professionals have a dual responsibility when dealing with pregnant adolescents.

“If a healthcare professional is made aware of a crime such as rape, they are duty-bound to report it to the relevant authorities. This includes pregnancies in adolescent girls younger than 16 years of age, as stipulated under Section 110 of the Children’s Act.”

Keeka added, “We are guided by several pieces of legislation, including the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act, as well as expanded definitions of statutory and underage rape provided by institutions such as the Commission for Gender Equality and the courts.”

He also emphasised that addressing teenage pregnancies requires collaboration across various societal sectors.

“Teenage pregnancies are a whole-of-society matter. This must involve parents, teachers, religious institutions, the police, the Department of Social Development, communities, friends, and neighbours,” he said.

Adeshini Naicker from Childline stressed the importance of legal accountability for perpetrators of statutory rape.

“If both are underage, no legal action may be taken, but if one is older, the older individual may be prosecuted for statutory rape,” she said.

Naicker added, “Prosecuting adults who engage with underage girls can raise awareness of legal consequences and discourage such behaviour.”

She also said Childline supports pregnant teenagers and young mothers through their programmes.

“Childline provides emotional support, healthcare, legal assistance, education, and family guidance to young mothers, helping them navigate challenges of pregnancy and motherhood,” Naicker explained.

THE MERCURY