Z30.9
DESCRIPTION
Adolescents are at risk for both sexually transmitted disease and unintended pregnancy. Health care workers need to be supportive of adolescents regardless of whether they are abstinent or sexually active.
The foetus may be at risk for teratogenic effects of chronic medications taken by a pregnant adolescent. Examples of potential teratogenic medicines include some members of the following classes, e.g. anticonvulsants, antiretrovirals, anticoagulants, antithyroids, chemotherapy and radiation.
GENERAL AND SUPPORTIVE MEASURES
- Offer sex education (risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections) early and at every opportunity in adolescence.
- Counsel pregnant adolescent females about the risks of teratogenicity.
MEDICINE TREATMENT
For contraception, refer to the Standard Treatment Guidelines and Essential Medicines List for Primary Healthcare. Where necessary adolescents should have access to the full range of contraception options.
Seek expert advice for pregnant teenagers on potential teratogenic medicine.
REFERRAL
- All pregnant teenagers with significant disease requiring chronic medicine.
- Refer a pregnant adolescent at risk for teratogenicity for early foetal ultrasonography.