Prevalence and factors associated with repeat pregnancies among teenagers attending antenatal clinics in selected public health facilities in Kampala, Uganda

Abstract

Introduction Repeat teenage pregnancy is a global public health problem because it compounds negative effects and outcomes of first pregnancy such as maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity. Prevalence and factors associated with repeat teenage pregnancies have not been determined or fully explored in urban centres in Uganda. Objectives This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with repeat pregnancies among teenagers attending antenatal clinics in selected public health hospitals and health centres in Kampala and to explore the experience of teenagers with repeat pregnancies. Methods A cross sectional study was conducted and 230 pregnant teenagers who were attending antenatal clinics (ANC) in Mulago-Kawempe hospital, Naguru Hospital, Kisenyi Health IV, Naguru Teenage and information Centre and Kawaala Health Centre III were interviewed.7 teenagers with known repeat pregnancies were purposively selected from ANC in Mulago hospital for In-depth Interviews (IDI) exploring their experience with repeat pregnancy. Results Prevalence of repeat pregnancy among pregnant teenagers in Kampala was found at 18.2%. Teenagers who were performing poorly while at school, those who were orphans and those who were not using any family planning methods before conceiving were significantly more likely to get repeat pregnancy. Pregnant teenagers reported negative experience with relative and their partners after conceiving for the second time such as partners discontinuing the relationship and changing location and or contacts by male partners upon learning of repeat pregnancy and dropping out of school after conceiving again before the age of 20. Conclusion and recommendation Pregnant teenagers need to be supported by their teachers and health workers to avoid repeat pregnancy and to be provided with immediate postpartum contraceptives to prevent repeat pregnancy.