Teenage pregnancy is on the increase in Nigeria, and experts have identified early marriage, peer pressure, and sexual violence as key contributors to the disturbing trend.
Speaking during an enlightenment programme organised by The Challenge Initiative (TCI) in Osogbo, the Adolescent Desk Officer at the Osun State Primary Health Care Board, Mrs. Roseline Akinlabi, listed child marriage, peer influence, and early menstruation (before age 12) as some of the leading causes of teenage pregnancy.
According to her, “Sexual violence, including rape, and menstruation before 12 years (early menarche), were also significant factors for adolescent pregnancy.”
Citing data from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Akinlabi said Nigeria remains one of the countries with the highest rates of teenage pregnancy in the world.
“The data also indicates that approximately 19 per cent of adolescent girls between 15 and 19 years have begun childbearing,” she said.
She explained the dangers associated with teenage pregnancies, which range from health complications to long-term socio-economic consequences.
“Teenage pregnancy can lead to complications during childbirth, including eclampsia, puerperal endometritis and systemic infections. It can also lead to pregnancy-induced hypertension, gestational diabetes, infections, dropping out of school, hindering future educational and career opportunities,” she warned.
“Teenage pregnancy can cause stress and traumatic experience, potentially leading to depression, anxiety and mental health issues.
“Problems associated with teenage pregnancy also include: unsafe abortion, physical abuse, denial of basic rights, psychological stress, among others.”
Akinlabi described adolescence as a critical transition between childhood and adulthood, characterised by major emotional and physical changes.
“Adolescence is a critical transition between childhood and adulthood, characterised by significant emotional and physical changes.
“Early adolescence is between 10 and 14 years of age, while late adolescence is between ages 15 and 19.
“During this period, young people undergo significant growth and development, including puberty, cognitive maturation, and formation of a personal identity,” she noted.
She stressed that limited access to reliable and affordable contraceptives, as well as the stigma and misinformation surrounding their use, are key drivers of unintended adolescent pregnancies.
“According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), adolescent pregnancy occurs in females under the age of 20. Some ways to minimise teenage pregnancy include combating gender-based violence, empowerment of the girl-child, comprehensive sex education, access to contraception, among others,” she added.
Source— NAN
Discover more from Rootedscope Media
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
