The Common Culprits of Teenage Pregnancies

Teenage pregnancies can be a function of social, economic, cultural, and individual factors. Indeed, the reasons behind its prevalence can vary from one community to another. However, Health For Nigeria, a non-profit organization in Lagos, Nigeria, believes it is imperative to bring attention to some of its most common causes so our youth can make more well-informed decisions.

Below are a few of the common culprits of teenage pregnancies, straight from a reputable health organization in Nigeria:

• Little to No Access to Sexual Education

  Inadequate or absent sex education makes teenagers much more susceptible to poor decisions about sexual behavior, contraception, and the potential consequences of unprotected sex. Most of the time, these result in unplanned pregnancies.

• Limited Access to Contraceptives

  Restricted access to contraception, owing to financial constraints, geographical location, or societal stigma, all contribute to an increased likelihood of unintended pregnancies. Not only that, but this can likewise lead to other healthcare concerns, including rising cases of sexually-transmitted diseases.

• Peer Pressure and Social Norms

  Adolescents may also face pressure from their peers to participate in sexual behavior, especially if they perceive it as a sign of maturity, popularity, or inclusion. Cultural norms promoting early marriage or stigmatizing contraception also play a significant role.

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