CityNews – Phichit Public Health Office (PPHO) Physician General Dr. Boonchai Theerakarn has voiced concern over teen pregnancy in the province, where some of the pregnant girls are as young as 12 years old.
Dr. Boonchai told reporters at Phichit city hall meeting on 4th June that last year there were 773 teens giving birth at Phichit hospitals and that teen pregnancy has been an ongoing problem in the province. The number of teen pregnancy should be 10 in 100 or less, he said, not 30 in 100.
Dr. Boonchai believes the leading cause is insufficient sex education in Phichit to inform and encourage teenagers to use methods of contraception such as condoms and birth control pills. He also mentioned the more reliable forearm implant method which can last three to five years, noting that birth control implant services are now available for free at Phichit’s district hospitals.
Suriya Phoblek, PPHO Lead Researcher, said that according to 2011-2012 survey, 68% of girls in Phichit aged 14 years old engaged in sexual activities, most of which occurred when their parents were not home.
For teen pregnancy prevention and consultation, contact the PPHO 056 990 354 ext. 140 or 089 194 2754.
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