New data reveals a significant decline in the teen birth rate in Tulsa County, thanks to the support of local initiatives focused on education and contraceptive services for young people. According to the George Kaiser Family Foundation, the teen birth rate in Tulsa County has dropped by an impressive 67% from 2009 to 2022. In 2009, there were 57.2 teen births per every 1,000 females aged 15-19 in the county. In 2022, that number had decreased to 18.9 teen births per 1,000 females in the same age group.
Recognizing the need for action in 2009, the George Kaiser Family Foundation invested in two programs aimed at addressing the issue. The Amplify Youth Health Collective and the Take Control Initiative were introduced to provide evidence-based sex education in local schools and offer access to free contraception. These initiatives have been instrumental in achieving the remarkable decline in the teen birth rate, which has now fallen below the state average. In 2022, the state of Oklahoma reported a teenage birth rate of 21.2 per 1,000 females aged 15-19.
Kimberly Butler, the senior program officer at the George Kaiser Family Foundation, highlighted the importance of collaboration and the positive impact these programs have had on Tulsa County. She emphasized the foundation’s commitment to ensuring every young child has an equal opportunity at success in life, focusing on early childhood education and support services.
However, this success comes at an interesting juncture for Oklahoma. The state has recently been considering restrictions on sex education, with Senate Bill 1563 and House Bill 3120 proposing that parents provide consent for their children to participate in sex education. Such opt-in policies can pose barriers for young people seeking access to this crucial knowledge. The Sexuality Information and Education Council of the U.S. asserts that comprehensive sex education is essential in promoting better outcomes in the state.
Butler hopes that Tulsa County’s progress can serve as a model for other communities, demonstrating how initiatives can provide teenagers with an equal opportunity for success. The collaborative efforts and dedication of various organizations and individuals have contributed to the significant reduction in the teen birth rate. Butler expressed her gratitude for being part of the Tulsa community, which she described as having great people and organizations, doing remarkable work, and achieving incredible results.
The decline in Tulsa County’s teen birth rate showcases the power of local initiatives and evidence-based programs in addressing crucial issues affecting young people. By investing in comprehensive sex education and providing access to contraception, Tulsa County has made significant strides in reducing teenage pregnancies and empowering its youth. It is essential to continue supporting such initiatives and ensure that every community can provide young people with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.
