Abstract:
Introduction
Over 15 million adolescent girls between the ages of 15 and 19 give birth globally each year. More than 50% of that number occur in developing countries with sub-Saharan Africa accounting for up to 45% of that estimate. Aldolescent pregnancy is a major health proble in rural Ghana. An improved understanding of the sociodemographic characteristics of male partners and the nature of their relationship with the pregnant adolescent will assist in the design of interventions targeted at male partners.
Method
A mixed-method study was conducted in the South Dayi District in the Volta region of Ghana to describe the socio demographic characteristics of the partners of pregnant adolescent girls and to explore the nature of the relationship that resulted in pregancy. Structured interviews were conducted with a convenient sample of pregnant adolescent. This was followed by in-depth interviews.
Results
Seventy-six pregnant adolescents were surveyed in eight health facilities. Their average age was 17years (standard deviation=1.2yrs). The majority of pregnancies were unplanned. Forty-seven percent and 22% of pregnant adolescents were staying with only their mothers or with the partner at the time of the pregnancy. The mean and range of the age difference between the male partner and the adolescent girl was 4.37years (SD=3.99) and -2 - 25yrs respectively. Forty-three percent had known the male partner for two years or more prior to the pregnancy and since the pregnancy 56% have been the biggest source of financial support. Economic deprivation and the urge for financial support was a major lure in the relationships that led to pregnancy.
Conclusions
Highlighting the consequences of making adolescent girls pregnant could be a detriment to other males. Social protection measures are needed to support single mothers with adolescents girls.
