In yet another shocking incident, a UK girl has given birth at the age of 11. Reportedly, she is now Britain's youngest ever mum. She got pregnant when she was 10 and gave birth to a healthy baby earlier this month.
As per media reports, the girl’s family wasn’t aware that she is pregnant and social services are now investigating. “It has come as a big shock to us. She’s now surrounded by expert help and the main thing is that she and the baby are okay,” a close source to the family said.
“There are questions around why people were unaware. This is extremely concerning.”
According to data, “Around one in every 2500 births happens to someone who doesn’t know she’s pregnant or has hidden it.”
Also Read: Fact Check: 'S.African woman's claim of giving birth to 10 babies not true'
Reportedly, the former youngest mother in Britain was Tressa Middleton, who had a baby at the age of just 12 in 2006.
She was forced to give up her child after it was revealed that the child’s father was her own brother who had raped her.
As per experts, girls are approaching puberty sooner than earlier generations. There can be multiple factors leading to this such as - various biological or environmental factors, modern diet, etc. According to Dr. Carol Cooper, “Because children are heavier, puberty is happening earlier these days.”
Generally, girls hit puberty at the age of 11, however, it can occur at any time between the ages of 8 and 14. Due to less age of the mother, there are higher chances of low birth weight, premature labobur and several infections.