Factors Influencing Early Teenage Pregnancies :

Abstract

Introduction The study was to determine the factors influencing early teenage pregnancies. A case study was done at Naguru Teeenage Information and Information Centre, Nakawa Division. The main objective of the study was to determine the factors influencing the prevalence of early pregnancies among teenagers in Kampala attending Naguru Teenage Information and Health Centre. The specific objectives were : To estimate the prevalence of pregnancy among teenagers aged 13-19 years attending Naguru Teenage Centre. To assess social and cultural factors that influence teenage pregnancy. To assess economic factors that influence teenage pregnancy. Methodology A descriptive cross sectional study using non probability systematic sampling was used. Findings It was found that 54% of the respondents were either married or cohabiting thus living with their spouses. It was also found that 51% of the respondents had stopped school in primary level, 43% had stopped in O-level and only 6% had reached A-level. Use of family planning methods was at 12.6% among the respondents. Only 18% of the respondents were employed. Recommendations The government should formulate and enforce policies concerning education of the girl child to enable enable them complete atleast secondary education. The government needs to involve communities in planning and implemation of reproductive health services especially the youth for youth friendly adolescent health services. The government should introduce mandatory counseling and sex education in primary schools to enable children acquire knowledge that will enable them avoid early sex and its effects.