FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO EARLY PREGNANCY AMONG GIRLS AGED 13 – 18 YEARS ATTENDING MCH/FP CLINIC IN KISUMU COUNTY HOSPITAL

Abstract

Early pregnancy among teenage girls is a critical public health issue with significant implications for maternal and child health. In Kisumu County, early pregnancies are a growing concern, impacting educational and socio-economic outcomes. This study aims to investigate the factors affecting early pregnancy in teenage girls at Kisumu County Hospital. Understanding these factors is vital for developing targeted interventions to address and mitigate early pregnancies (Munyua et al., 2020). The research will be conducted at Kisumu County Hospital, located in Kisumu County, Kenya. Broad Objective is to identify and analyze the factors influencing early pregnancy among teenage girls attending Kisumu County Hospital. Specific Objectives: To examine socio-economic factors contributing to early pregnancy in teenage girl; to assess the impact of educational attainment and school-related factors on early pregnancy and to explore the role of family dynamics and peer influences in early pregnancy among teenage girls. The study focused on teenage girls (ages 13-18) who will be receiving care at Kisumu County Hospital. Limitations include the potential for selection bias, as the sample is limited to those seeking medical care, and the influence of unmeasured factors not captured in the study. A stratified random sampling technique will be used to ensure representation across different socio-economic and educational backgrounds. The study population consists of 240 individuals, which is calculated by Fisher et al (2006) formula. Data will be collected through structured interviews and medical records, with consent obtained from participants. Data will be analyzed using statistical software to identify significant factors and trends. Findings will be presented in terms of socio-economic status, educational impact, and family dynamics, providing a comprehensive overview of the factors influencing early pregnancy. The study’s findings offer valuable insights into the factors contributing to early pregnancy among teenage girls, informing public health strategies and interventions.