Abstract

Background: Employing successful strategies grounded in evidence-based literature is important in preventing teenage pregnancy and subsequent teen parenthood (Strunk 2008). From 2006-2010 the rate of teenage pregnancy rose in Canada after forty years of a steady downward trajectory (McKay 2012). Prevention strategies that do not consider local context and culture have had limited success in adapting to Canada’s society and youth (Strunk 2008). Evaluations are rare and have been unable to identify the impact that community factors have on prevention strategies. Purpose: This study explored how the literature (academic and grey) discuss the effectiveness of teenage pregnancy prevention strategies. Methods: A total of thirty-one sources were analyzed to identify effective approaches to teenage pregnancy prevention. CINAHL and Psychinfo were the consulted health-related databases. Grey literature sources include government policies and legislations and public blogs. The data was examined using a thematic analysis of secondary data. A colour coding approach was used to identify relevant themes and sub-themes. Results: The results of the study highlight successful teen pregnancy prevention strategies. Four main themes were identified throughout the literature: youth development, community engagement, program implementation, and sexual health focus. Conclusion: Focusing on effective approaches can inform recommendations for the development of future strategies.