Medicine and Medical Sciences

Teenage pregnancy is a global issue that raises concerns for all people who have an interest in the health and well-being of teenagers and their children. Factors associated with teenage pregnancy are multiple. This study aims to identify the individual factors perceived to contribute to teenage pregnancy at Emmanuel Health Center in Leribe. The researchers adopted a cross-sectional descriptive quantitative research design. A structured question-naire was administered using face-to-face interviews to collect data from 50 female teenagers who met the selection criteria identified through non-probability convenience sampling. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 21. A total of 50 teenage girls participated in the study. Among the contributing factors assessed, data analysis showed that sexual abuse, traditional norms and values on sexual behaviour, inadequate involvement of women in decision making, early independence, peer influence, drugs, and alcohol were perceived to increase the likelihood of teenage pregnancy. The study revealed various factors possibly contribute to teenage pregnancy, but drugs and alcohol were regarded as the main factors, followed by sexual abuse and early independence.
 

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