Prevalence, determinants, and consequences of teenage pregnancy on teenage girls in selected health areas of the Limbe Health District in Cameroon

Abstract

Teenage pregnancy is a significant public health concern in many low-and middle-income countries, including Cameroon. It leads to adverse health outcomes for both the mother and child, as well as social, economic, and educational challenges. Little is known about teenage pregnancy in the Limbe Health District. This study aimed to address this gap by determining the prevalence of teenage pregnancy, identifying the determinants, and assessing the knowledge of teenagers on teenage pregnancy. This was a community-based cross-sectional study carried out in selected health areas of the Limbe Health District from February to May 2023 among 394 teenagers. A multistage sampling technique was used to enroll participants. A Structured questionnaire was used to collect data. The data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences Version 26. The mean age of the participants was 15.5±2.6. Of the 394 teenagers, 167 (42.4%) were within the age group 17-19 years and 358 (90.9%) were single. Less than half, 190 (48.2%) had attended secondary school and 317 (80.5%) were Christian. The prevalence of teenage pregnancy was 56.1% (95%CI: 51.2%-61.0%). The proportion of teenagers with good knowledge of teenage pregnancy was 59.1% (95%CI: 54.3%-64.0%). Factors found associated with teenage pregnancy were: age group (AOR=2.5 [95%CI:1.3-4.9], p=0.007), marital status (AOR=6.3 [95%CI:2.3-17.4], p<0.001), keeping late nights/night clubbing (AOR=2.4[95%CI:1.3-4.2], p=0.003), Sexually abused in the past (AOR=2.1[95%CI:1.2-37], p=0.008), and being free to leave and come home at any time (AOR=3.6 [95%CI:1.9-6.7], p<0.001). Regarding the consequences of teenage pregnancy, 158(40.1%) reported being rejected by their parents as a result of the pregnancy, and 198(50.3%) dropped out of school as a result of teenage pregnancy. Also, 134(31.0%) were reported with health issues as a result of teenage pregnancy. Teenage pregnancy prevalence was high in this study. Healthcare workers and parents of teens girls need to employ a collaborative approach to remedy the situation in the locality.