A stark warning about the rising risks associated with pregnant children and teens dominated the recent South Carolina House Judiciary Committee meeting. The discussion highlighted alarming statistics from a newly released legislative report on maternal morbidity and mortality, revealing a troubling increase in maternal deaths in the state.

Experts underscored that pregnant minors face significantly higher health risks compared to adult women. Complications during pregnancy and childbirth are the leading cause of death for girls aged 15 to 19 globally. The risks extend beyond the mothers; infants born to these young mothers are more likely to be premature or have low birth weights, leading to long-term health challenges.

The meeting also addressed the disturbing reality that many pregnancies among minors result from abuse, including sexual assault and trafficking. Advocates argued that forcing a child to carry a pregnancy to term constitutes child abuse, emphasizing that children as young as eight can become pregnant, highlighting the urgent need for protective legislation.

As South Carolina grapples with a shortage of obstetricians—now 17 counties lack adequate maternal care—the committee members were urged to consider the implications of current laws on maternal and infant health. The rising maternal and infant mortality rates signal a critical need for immediate action to address these issues and protect vulnerable populations.