In Serbia, the number of teenage pregnancies has reached concerning levels, with more than 3,500 teenage girls becoming mothers over the past two years. Alarmingly, 31 of these girls gave birth before reaching the age of 15, according to data from the Institute for Public Health of Serbia “Dr Milan Jovanović Batut.” This trend has prompted calls for comprehensive sexual education and support systems for young mothers.

Dr. Ana Mitrović Jovanović, a specialist in gynecology and obstetrics, highlights the increased health risks associated with early pregnancies, emphasizing the necessity of systemic education for both girls and boys. She notes that pregnancies in early adolescence carry a higher risk of complications, such as high blood pressure and premature birth. “Pregnancy before the age of 15 is a significant problem,” Dr. Mitrović Jovanović states, underscoring the importance of psychological and social support alongside medical care for these young mothers.

Psychologist Snežana Anđelić adds that while young people today have access to a wealth of information about sexuality and reproductive health, this does not equate to the maturity needed to understand the consequences of their actions. She stresses that the responsibility for one’s behavior requires a deep level of maturity, which is often lacking in adolescents. “It’s not enough to just provide information,” Anđelić argues, advocating for ongoing support from families, schools, and professionals.

Both experts agree that comprehensive sexual education in schools is crucial. Dr. Mitrović Jovanović suggests that regular school health check-ups could serve as opportunities for preventive conversations with young people. She also emphasizes that education should not be limited to girls, but should include boys as well, to foster a more informed and responsible approach to sexual health.

The current situation reflects a broader societal issue, where the lack of adequate education and support systems leaves young mothers facing significant psychological and social challenges. Dr. Mitrović Jovanović points out that while successful pregnancies and healthy births are possible at a young age, the psychological and social demands on young mothers are immense. Without support from their immediate families and society at large, these young women face an uphill battle.

Anđelić notes that the presence of sexuality in the environment where young people grow up is pervasive, yet their ability to fully comprehend the consequences of sexual relationships does not match the amount of information they receive. She calls for open communication between parents and children, suggesting that parents should discuss these topics openly to provide guidance and support.

The rise in teenage pregnancies in Serbia underscores the urgent need for systemic changes in how sexual education is approached. Experts argue for a multi-faceted strategy that includes education, family support, and accessible professional advice. By addressing these needs, Serbia can better support its young mothers and work towards reducing the number of adolescent pregnancies.