Submission ID 130421
| Issue/Objective | Teenage pregnancy remains a significant public health and equity challenge, limiting educational attainment, economic opportunities, and long-term health outcomes for adolescent girls. In the Ada West District, early pregnancy reflects broader social, behavioral, and structural determinants, including limited autonomy, inadequate access to reproductive health services, and socio-economic dependency. This study aimed to identify the key determinants influencing teenage pregnancy in the district. The study aligns with the conference theme by highlighting upstream factors that perpetuate inequities and hinder the realization of adolescent girls' rights and potential. |
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| Methodology/Approach | A cross-sectional study design was employed, using both quantitative and qualitative methods. Data were collected from 73 teenage mothers through structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS. The study examined intrapersonal and interpersonal factors influencing teenage pregnancy, including knowledge, behavior, and social environment. |
| Results | The study found that 19.4% of participants were pregnant at the time of the survey. While awareness of contraception was relatively high (71.2%), utilization remained low. Key determinants identified included limited contraceptive use and increased autonomy or freedom from home without adequate support. Most participants were economically dependent on parents or relatives, highlighting underlying socio-economic vulnerabilities. |
| Discussion/Conclusion | Teenage pregnancy in the study area is driven by a complex interplay of behavioral, social, and structural factors, underscoring the need for equity-focused interventions. Strengthening access to youth-friendly reproductive health services, promoting community and family engagement, and supporting girls' education are critical for addressing these disparities. These findings support Sub-theme 1 by emphasizing the importance of addressing upstream determinants and systemic barriers to achieve health equity and protect the rights of adolescent girls. |
| Presenters and Affiliations | Faustina Akua Denteh Ghana Health Service Isaac Owusu Mensah Ghana Health Service |
