Prevalence and determinants of repeat pregnancy among adolescent girls in selected health areas of the Limbe Health District of Cameroon: A community-based cross-sectional study

Abstract

Repeat pregnancy is a significant public health concern due to its association with adverse maternal and child health outcomes. Understanding the factors contributing to repeat pregnancy is crucial for developing effective interventions and improving reproductive health services. This study aims to provide valuable insights into the prevalence and determinants of repeat pregnancy in the Limbe Health District, which can inform targeted interventions and policies to reduce its occurrence and improve reproductive health outcomes. This was a community-based cross-sectional study carried out in selected health areas of the Limbe Health District from February to June 2023 among 394 teenagers. A multistage sampling technique was used to enroll participants. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data. The principal investigator collected data and the data was entered using kobo collect. The data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences Version 26. Descriptive statistics such as mean and standard deviation were used to summarize data. A logistic regression model was used to identify determinants of teenage pregnancy at p<0.05. The mean age was 15.5±2.6. Of the 394 teenagers, 167 (42.4%) were within the age group 17-19 years and 358 (90.9%) were single. Less than half, 190 (48.2%) had attended secondary school and 317 (80.5%) were Christian. The prevalence of repeat pregnancy was 12.2%. Seaport health area recorded the highest individual prevalence of repeat pregnancy at 16.6% and the Bojongo health area recorded the lowest individual prevalence was at 6.4%. Factors identified associated with repeat pregnancy were age group 17-19 (AOR=12.6[95%CI: 1.51-105.48], p=0.019), being married (AOR=12.82[95%CI:3.55-46.30], P<0.001), Being a smoker (AOR=3.39[1.25-9.21], p=0.017), consuming alcohol (AOR=2.60[95%CI: 0.8-8.4], p=0.025) and dating older people (AOR=2.90[1.20-7.04], p=0.018). This study revealed a repeat pregnancy prevalence of 12.2%. Factors associated with repeat pregnancy include marital status, smoking status, age and alcohol consumption. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions and support for individuals at risk of repeat pregnancies.