Because adolescence is a life period characterized by
profound biological, intellectual, and psychosocial
changes, it is important to assess the developmental
status of teenage clients in order to provide appropriate
prenatal care. Adolescent development has profound
implications for the ways in which teens experience
pregnancy and prenatal care. Additionally, the challenges
of pregnancy and parenting can greatly impact
the developmental trajectory of young women’s lives.
Identifying individuals’ developmental capacities and
issues allows health care providers to fully incorporate
developmentally appropriate strategies into the care of
pregnant and parenting teens.