Abstract

Teenage pregnancy persists as a global public health challenge with profound implications for maternal and child
well-being, particularly in low-resource settings. This study investigates the prevalence, determinants, and
implications of teenage pregnancies in Lira District, Uganda. Employing a cross-sectional quantitative approach,
data was collected from 106 pregnant mothers aged 12-19 attending antenatal care services. Findings reveal that a
majority of respondents fall within the 12-19 age range, with significant proportions having attained only primary
education and being married. Factors contributing to early pregnancies include peer pressure and financial
constraints. Moreover, respondents express awareness of risks such as vaginal tears and maternal mortality
during delivery. These findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive interventions addressing socioeconomic
disparities, enhancing access to education and healthcare, and promoting reproductive health education.
By elucidating the complexities surrounding teenage pregnancies in a resource-constrained context, this study
contributes valuable insights to inform targeted strategies aimed at reducing the burden of teenage pregnancies
and improving the health outcomes of adolescent mothers and their offspring.
Keywords: Prevalence, Teenage Pregnancy, Mothers, Antenatal Care, Regional Hospital