Analysing factors associated with teenage pregnancy in northern Uganda

Abstract

Teenage pregnancy, also known as adolescent pregnancy is defined as a teenage girl, usually between the ages of 13-19 becoming pregnant. It is a very huge global social and public health problem. This study aimed at analyzing the factors associated with teenage pregnancies in Northern Uganda. A total of 4368 respondents from Northern Uganda were included in this study, which was obtained from UDHS 2016. Data was analyzed in univariate, bivariate and multivariate analysis. The chi-square test was used to analyze data at a bivariate level and the binary logistic regression was used to analyze data at a multivariate level. Age at first sex had a significant relationship with teenage pregnancy in Northern Uganda (Pr=0). The majority of the girls who had their first sexual intercourse between the ages of 13-17 were more likely to get pregnant (81%). Place of residence showed a significant relationship with teenage pregnancy in Northern Uganda (Pr=0), the majority of the respondents (88%) who experienced teenage pregnancy were from rural areas of Northern Uganda (Table 4.2). furthermore, religion was statistically associated with teenage pregnancy in Northern Uganda (Pr=0), Muslims were more likely to experience teenage pregnancy (60%). Wealth status showed a significant relationship with teenage pregnancy in Northern Uganda (Pr=0), the majority of the respondents who experienced teenage pregnancy (54%) were from the lowest wealth quintile. Therefore, based on the above findings, the study concludes that increased access to comprehensive sexual education reduces the occurrence of teenage pregnancy, so there is a need to promote sexual education among teenagers. Contraceptive use reduces teenage pregnancy so there is a need to promote contraceptive use among sexually active teenagers. Address cultural and societal norms since they contribute to teenage pregnancy. Provide support for pregnant teenagers and Additional research is needed to better understand the factors influencing teenage pregnancy in Northern Uganda. This can help to inform the development of more targeted and effective interventions to prevent teenage pregnancy in this region.