Oklahoma Teen Birth Rate Declines, State Moves to 5th Place Nationally
Recently released data shows that Oklahoma improved its ranking for birth rates among teenagers, dropping from 4th highest in the nation to 5th highest according to the CDC State Birth Rate Rankings for 2022.
Amplify Youth Health Collective, a Tulsa nonprofit advancing youth sexual health and well-being in Oklahoma, attributes the decline to young people being equipped with education and healthcare services that encourage positive sexual health and wellness practices.
“We know that when young people live in communities where sex education and reproductive health care are widely available, they make informed decisions about their sexual health,” says Executive Director, Heather Duvall. “We’re thrilled to see such positive outcomes as a result of Oklahoma youth and our families, educators, schools, and healthcare entities working together.”
The Oklahoma teen birth rate declined 51% over the past 10 years of available data. This not only signifies improved health metrics for adolescents but also carries long-term benefits for the state’s overall well-being, including enhanced educational attainment, economic
stability, and healthier communities.
This decline is due to intentional and diligent efforts from many working across the state to ensure that young people in Oklahoma have every opportunity to receive evidence-based sexual health education. However, progress doesn’t always mean victory. Many Oklahomans still live in areas without sex education and sexual healthcare services. This lack of access creates an unequal playing field across the state.
“Those who live in communities or school districts that do not provide sexual health and education services are at a disadvantage compared to their peers in other areas where these opportunities exist,” says Duvall.
Amplify says it’s important to raise awareness about these disparities and advocate for an expansion of services to bridge the gap and ensure a more equitable Oklahoma.
May is nationally recognized as Sex Ed for All Month, which aims to remove inequities and promote positive sexual health outcomes for teens. There are many ways to learn more and get involved this month to support sex ed in Oklahoma. Amplify’s Youth Leadership Council
is hosting a free event on May 25 th from 1-4 pm at Guthrie Green to reach other teens with sexual health information and resources in a community setting.
Amplify encourages parents and trusted adults to bring young people in their lives to the event to learn about sexual health and local resources. You can also learn more at amplifytulsa.org.
About Amplify Youth Health Collective
Amplify is a Youth Health Collective advancing youth sexual health and well-being through education, collaboration, and advocacy. Amplify leverages the strengths of young people, partner organizations, and trusted adults to provide and strengthen a network of educational, environmental, and social supports leading to positive adolescent sexual health outcomes. To learn more, please visit amplifytulsa.org.
