The document discusses teenage pregnancy, defining it as occurring between ages 13-19. Main causes include poverty, lack of access to contraception, and substance abuse. Consequences include mental, social, financial problems for the mother as well as health risks for the baby like premature birth. Teen pregnancy costs U.S. taxpayers $11 billion per year. It can also negatively impact the teen's education by causing irregular attendance and dropping out. Suggested solutions include improved sex education, access to contraception and counseling.