Comparison of hyperactivity and inattention symptoms in female adolescents with and without a history of pregnancy

Introduction: Teenage pregnancy has a negative impact both on mother's health and on her offspring quality life and development. In spite of its important social relevance, behavioral factors that can favor its occurrence have not been extensively explored. Objective: To compare symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity between adolescents with and without a history of pregnancy. Method: A sociodemographic record and the attention deficit hyperactivity disorder questionnaire (ADD) of the Neuropsi instrument were applied to 60 adolescents: 30 cases and 30 controls. The ADD was answered by the adolescents themselves, as well as by a close relative (parent or spouse) or by one of their teachers. Results: From the perspective of others (parents and teachers), adolescents with a history of pregnancy showed more symptoms of attention deficit and higher attention deficit and hyperactivity overall score (both p <= 0.01). In addition, ADD overall score was found to be associated with adolescent pregnancy (OR = 1.11, 95% Cl = 1.01-1.24, p = 0.036) Conclusions: Symptoms of attention deficit and hyperactivity can represent another factor associated with teenage pregnancy.