Factors Associated with Teenage Pregnancy: A Case Study in Ahafo Ano South-East District of Ghana

Abstract

Background: Teenage pregnancy is a global societal issue with significant public health implications. Both developed and developing nations are affected, although developing nations like Ghana are more likely to have it. The explored the factors associated with teenage pregnancy in the Ahafo Ano South East District of Ghana. Methods: The study employed qualitative method. An exploratory study design was used to determine the factors that influence the prevalence of teenage pregnancy in Ahafo Ano South-East District. A purposive sampling method was used to select 45 participants for the study. Data were collected by using one on one interview and focus group discussion. Four mixed focus group discussions comprising five people in a group were conducted. Face to face interview was done for the other 25 participants and analysis done with NVivo. Results: The findings revealed that early marriage, poor knowledge and use of family planning, peer influence and social media were the main factors that influenced teenage pregnancy. On support systems available, the study revealed that most of the participants had support from their families, the friends and health workers to deal with their challenges. Support systems are ways adopted by the teenage mothers with pregnancy to reduce their burden of the condition on the young mothers. On effects of teenage pregnancy, the following findings emerged: school dropout, child abuse, drug abuse and economic hardship were the main effects of teenage pregnancy. Conclusion: The study concludes that if the above challenges are not addressed by providing social support and adequate health services, sex education, girls after delivery will find it very difficult to reintegrate themselves into their families and communities. The government through the Ministry of Health should provide free medical care to the teenage pregnant girls to prevent further complications associated with the pregnancy.