Minnesota Teen Birth Rates Continue 30-Year Decline, According to New Report

Recent data from the 2025 Minnesota Adolescent Sexual Health Report reveals a significant long-term trend: pregnancy and birth rates among teenagers in the state have steadily decreased over the past three decades, reaching their lowest levels since 1990. The report, produced by the University of Minnesota Medical School's Center for Healthy Youth Development, highlights that the rates of teen pregnancies for ages 15 to 19 dropped nearly 5% from 2022 to 2023, with a total decline of about 70% since 1990.

Despite Minnesota's relatively small youth population, young people still account for a notable portion of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including 25% of chlamydia and 13% of gonorrhea cases statewide. The report emphasizes that while progress has been made, disparities in sexual health outcomes persist across different regions, racial and ethnic groups, gender identities, and sexual orientations.

The report also draws attention to youth involved in the criminal justice system, criticising the punitive measures like incarceration and sex offender registration, which are often ineffective for adolescents and can increase their risk of reoffending. It advocates for a more supportive, evidence-based approach that considers the diverse needs of youth.

Additionally, although STIs continue to decline, they remain a public health concern among adolescents. The report stresses the importance of continued investment in comprehensive sexual education, accessible healthcare, and addressing social determinants of health—including racial, ethnic, and gender disparities—to support healthy development.

According to Jill Farris, MPH, director at CHYD, "Supporting adolescent sexual health goes beyond preventing disease; it involves empowering young people with accurate, inclusive information and resources. All youth deserve the right to make informed, healthy choices."

Interactive, county-specific reports are available online, providing valuable insights into regional disparities and highlighting the importance of tailored interventions. The full details of this important public health assessment can be accessed through the Minnesota Adolescent Sexual Health Report.

For more information, visit https://chyd.umn.edu/training/training-professional-development-0/adolescent-sexual-health-report.

(Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-minnesota-teen-birth-year-decline.html)