INTRODUCTION: Adolescent pregnancy is a global public health challenge, and in Rwanda, though the percentage of adolescent girls experiencing pregnancy has decreased slightly, it remains a concern,
particularly in Karongi District, with high incidences. This study aims to identify the risk factors associated with adolescent pregnancy in Karongi district.
METHODS: A case-control study design with a 1:2 ratio of adolescent girls aged 13-19 years was carried out in Karongi District, Western Province, Rwanda. The data were collected using a structured questionnaire and face-to-face interviews. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors independently associated with adolescent pregnancy. The findings were presented as adjusted odds ratios (aORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).
RESULTS: A total of 522 adolescent girls participated in the study. In bivariate analysis, the majority of variables were significantly associated with adolescent pregnancy. In multivariable analyses, significant
factors independently associated with adolescent pregnancy were low socioeconomic status [Ubudehe category 1 (aOR = 4.6, CI = 1.47-14.28), and Ubudehe category 2 (aOR = 5.6, CI = 2.06-14.61)], lack of sexual education from parents/guardians [aOR = 4.5, CI = 1.71-11.82], peer pressure to engage in sexual intercourse (aOR = 3, CI = 1.23-7.32), first sexual intercourse at ≥ 16 years old (aOR = 32, CI = 5.98-88.52).
CONCLUSION: Low socioeconomic status, lack of sexual education from parents/guardians, peer pressure, and first-sex intercourse at ≥ 16 years old were found to be positively associated with adolescent pregnancy. Interventions focusing on increasing parental involvement in sexual health education, supporting low-income families, and addressing peer influence may play a vital role in preventing adolescent pregnancy.
