Why are girls becoming mothers? Exploring pregnancy determinants among high-risk women in Peru

Ticona D.M.; Torreblanca-Rodriguez S.M.; Condori-Mamani C.E.; Aquino-Salluca A.; Aquino-Canchari C.R. · British Journal of Midwifery (2025) · DOI: 10.12968/bjom.2024.0069

Resumen

Background/Aims Adolescent pregnancy is a significant public health challenge that has biological, psychological and social implications. This study aimed to identify associations between adolescent pregnancy and socioeconomic, gender inequality and reproductive health indicators in Peru. Methods This retrospective ecological study explored the pregnancy rate among adolescents aged 10-14 years using data from the Peruvian online registry system of birth certificates (2017-2021). Indicator data were taken from various sources. Maps and simple linear regression models were used to analyse the association between indicators and the adolescent pregnancy rate. Results From 2017 to 2021, the pregnancy rate among adolescents was 0.28 per 100 live births, with jungle regions showing the highest rates. Completing secondary education (P<0.001) and contraceptive use (P=0.011) were associated with a decrease in pregnancy rate. Conclusions There was a significant association between early adolescent pregnancy and socioeconomic and reproductive health indicators. Implications for practice It is essential to improve access to secondary education and encourage contraceptive use in Peru, as both are linked to early adolescent pregnancy. Public health efforts should prioritise improving socioeconomic conditions and ensuring fair access to reproductive health services, especially in the most vulnerable areas.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos; Universidad Privada de Tacna; Universidad de Huánuco