FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO TEENAGE PREGNANCY AMONG GIRLS ATTENDING MCH/FP CLINIC IN KISUMU COUNTY REFERRAL HOSPITAL

Abstract

Early pregnancy among teenage girls is a significant public health concern globally, leading to adverse outcomes such as school dropouts, poor academic performance, high rates of premature births, low birth weight, stillbirths, and neonatal deaths. This study aimed to investigate the factors contributing to early pregnancy among teenage girls aged 13-19 years attending the maternal and child health/family planning (MCH/FP) clinic at the Kisumu County Referral Hospital (KCRH) in Kenya. The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional research design to collect data from the target population. Data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The specific objectives were to examine the social-economic factors, identify the cultural factors, and determine the level of knowledge and awareness on early pregnancy among the teenage girls. The findings revealed that socio-demographic factors, such as age, education level, and marital status, played a significant role in early pregnancy. Economic factors, including poverty, financial instability, and transactional sex, were also identified as key contributors. Cultural norms and perceptions, including the acceptability of premarital sex and early marriage, as well as limited access to comprehensive sexuality education, further exacerbated the issue. Gaps in knowledge and awareness about sexual and reproductive health, including contraception and HIV status, were also evident among the participants. In conclusion, the study highlights the multifaceted nature of the factors contributing to early pregnancy among teenage girls attending the MCH/FP clinic in KCRH. Addressing this public health challenge will require a comprehensive, multi-pronged approach that addresses socio-demographic, economic, cultural, and knowledge-related determinants. The findings can inform the development of evidence-based interventions to reduce the incidence of early pregnancy and improve the sexual and reproductive health outcomes of teenage girls in Kisumu County and beyond.