Prevalence and factors associated with teenage pregnancy among prime gravidas in Butaleja district, Uganda.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Teenage pregnancy is one of the significant factors contributing to the high maternal and infant mortality rates in Uganda hence an obstacle to realization of MDG (Millennium Development Goals) 4 and 5. The prevalence and factors predicting teenage pregnancy are not clearly documented in Uganda. This study is expected to throw more light on this issue and contribute to the current control measures in place. OBJECTIVES: To establish the prevalence and the factors associated with teenage pregnancy among prime gravidas attending ANC (Ante Natal Care) in Butaleja district. METHODS: Cross-sectional study using both descriptive and analytic methods was done between January and March 2008 at Busolwe hospital antenatal clinic and the seven HC3s (Health care 3) in Butaleja district. Eligible prime gravidas were selected consecutively and subjected to a pretested semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. Data was cleaned and entered into Epi-Data 3.1, backed up and stored under lock and key, exported to SPSS 12.0 and STATA 8.0 for analysis. Statistical significance was determined using 95% confidence intervals and p-values of odds ratios as the effect measure. Multivariate analysis was done using logistic regression. Qualitative data in form of interview schedules (2 focus group discussions and 7 key-informant interviews with 2 religious leaders, 2 traditional birth attendants, 1 probation officer and 2 mid-wives) was analyzed into themes. RESULTS: Three hundred six of the 364 prime gravidas attending ANC in Butaleja who met the eligibility criteria 306 (84.1%) were teenagers. Low education level attained by the prime gravidas was significantly associated with teenage pregnancy (OR= 3.73, 95%C1=1.61-8.62, P=0.002) and knowledge of family planning methods significantly confounded education level attained in the study. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of teenage pregnancy among prime gravidas attending antenatal care in Butaleja district was high. Teenage pregnancy is a significant contributor to maternal and infant morbidity and mortality that raises health and development concerns that need more attention by various stakeholders.