Teen Births Decreasing In Ohio

The number of teen births in Ohio is still declining. The rate of women 19 and younger who gave birth in Ohio fell for the fourth consecutive year in 2011. That's according to an analysis of preliminary state data. Ohio Department of Health statistics show that the 12,189 teen births last year were down 11 percent from 2010. And it was the fewest recorded since the state began keeping track in 1990. Health officials say teen births continue to decline because more young people are using contraceptives, delaying sexual activity and utilizing more effective forms of birth control. Teen births are on track to fall again this year, with the state recording only 7,788 through late October.