Exploring potential correlates of pregnancy among adolescent same-sex attracted females

Data collected from several large-scale surveys of adolescent health have demonstrated increased rates of pregnancy among sexual minority adolescents in comparison to their heterosexual peers. A large body of research examining risk and protective factors relevant to adolescent pregnancy currently exists; however, research has yet to explicate how these factors may be similar or different for sexual minority individuals. We will explore these potential factors among a sample of 129 female same sex attracted youth (86% racial ethnic minority, age 16-20). Of those reporting ever having had vaginal, oral, or anal sex, 1 in 4 also reported a history of pregnancy (25.3%, or 18.3% of the total sample). On average, youth with a history of pregnancy were one year younger at first period (11 vs. 12), and 2 years younger at sexual debut (13 vs. 15) than youth without a pregnancy history. Both groups were equally as likely to report practicing safe sex in the 6 months prior to the survey, and no differences existed in levels of emotional distress (as measured by the Brief Symptom Inventory). However, youth with a history of pregnancy reported lower levels of both peer and family relationship quality across a number of measures (all p<.05). LGB- specific predictors will also be discussed (e.g., LGBT related victimization and peer support, degree of ‘outness'). Overall, these findings add to a growing body of literature documenting the importance of identifying the pregnancy-related experiences and associated needs of same-sex attracted adolescent females.