Minnesota Sees Continued Decline in Teen Birth Rates Over Three Decades

Recent findings from the University of Minnesota Medical School's Center for Healthy Youth Development (CHYD) reveal a significant decline in teen birth rates across Minnesota, marking the lowest figures since 1990. The data, released in the 2025 Minnesota Adolescent Sexual Health Report, showcases a continuing trend of decreasing pregnancy and birth rates among adolescents.

This comprehensive annual report aims to provide insights into the sexual and reproductive health of young individuals in Minnesota, emphasizing their developmental needs. The report highlights that adolescent sexual health encompasses more than just preventing pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs); it also includes recognizing the importance of informed decision-making and holistic support for adolescents.

Jill Farris, the director of training and education at CHYD, noted that while this progress is commendable, it is essential to maintain and enhance investment in programs that support youth development across various dimensions--physical, social, emotional, and cognitive. These efforts ensure that young individuals are equipped with the necessary tools and resources to make informed choices regarding their sexual health.

According to the report, there has been a nearly 5% reduction in teen birth rates and a 3% decrease in pregnancy rates for those aged 15 to 19 from the previous year. Over the past three decades, these rates have plummeted by an impressive 70%. Despite this positive trend, the report also highlights that young individuals in Minnesota, while constituting a small segment of the state's population, continue to experience a disproportionate share of STIs, accounting for 25% of chlamydia cases and 13% of gonorrhea cases statewide.

The report also addresses the complexities surrounding disparities in sexual health outcomes among Minnesota youth. Factors such as geography, race, gender identity, and sexual orientation intersect and contribute to these disparities. Furthermore, the findings bring to light the challenges faced by youth within the legal system, suggesting that current approaches to managing sexually harmful behaviors may inadvertently exacerbate the situation. Research indicates that punitive measures, including incarceration or sex offender registration, are often ineffective for young people and may increase the likelihood of reoffending.

Despite the strides made in reducing teen birth rates, the report underscores that social determinants of health--such as demographic differences, racial and ethnic disparities, and access to care--remain significant barriers affecting young people's access to quality sexual health information and services. Farris emphasized the importance of addressing the diverse experiences of all youth to effectively support adolescent sexual health, advocating for inclusive sexual health education that reaches every young individual.

Interactive reports detailing statistics for each of Minnesota's 87 counties are accessible online, providing a more localized understanding of adolescent sexual health trends.