Abstract

Teenage pregnancy remains a pressing global concern, impacting public health and
development on multiple fronts. This study focused on probing the specific factors
contributing to teenage pregnancy in Kirumya sub-county, Bundibugyo District, in western
Uganda. Its objectives centered on determining the prevalence of teenage pregnancy,
identifying key contributing factors, and highlighting the challenges faced by adolescents
contending with early pregnancies. Engaging fifty teenage mothers and drawing insights
from ten key informants, the study employed face-to-face individual interviews and Focus
Group Discussions (FGDs) for data collection. The research uncovered an alarming
prevalence of teenage pregnancy, estimated at 30-40%, surpassing the national average of
25%. Several interconnected factors drove this heightened incidence, including inadequate
parental guidance, limited educational opportunities for teenagers, negative cultural
norms, challenging socio-economic conditions, insufficient access to youth-friendly
services and contraceptives, and a dearth of supportive environments for proper child
rearing and development. Furthermore, the study shed light on the significant challenges
faced by teenage mothers, encompassing the weight of childcare responsibilities, parental
discrimination, and a lack of spousal support. In summary, the study revealed the
pronounced prevalence of teenage pregnancy in Bundibugyo District, largely stemming
from social, cultural, and institutional factors. Its recommendations advocate collaborative
efforts among government entities, NGOs, schools, and parents, emphasizing improved sex
education, enhanced accessibility to youth-friendly services, and the establishment of
comprehensive social, economic, and psychological support networks for teenage mothers
navigating this intricate landscape.
Keywords: teenage pregnancy, associated factors, women.