Social determinants of pregnancy among school-aged adolescents in two Colombian municipalities

Abstract

Objective: To determine the influence of social factors on adolescent pregnancy in contexts of regional vulnerability.

Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted, which included 354 high school students from public schools in two municipalities located in the Colombian Caribbean. Analyzed factors included sociodemographic data, aspects related to sexual and reproductive health, and interpersonal variables. Data analysis was carried out using univariate and bivariate techniques, determining the odds ratio (OR), 95% confidence intervals, and statistical significance.

Results: The analysis identified the following risk variables: being female (OR=1.74; 95% CI: 1.10-2.74), not participating in religious practices (OR=1.78; 95% CI: 1.02-3.10), and being in the 14-to-16-year-old age group (OR=3.24; 95% CI: 1.58-6.60). Notably, male adolescents showed lower attendance at sexual and reproductive health programs (OR= 0.63; 95% CI: 0.40-0.98). Likewise, the non-utilization of these health services was a key predictor of a lack of knowledge about contraceptive methods (OR=3.171; 95% CI: 1.84-5.46).

Conclusions: Reproductive vulnerability is closely linked to school dropout, making this group a priority for interventions that extend beyond the traditional educational setting. The need to implement intersectional strategies with a gender and rights-based approach is emphasized, strategies that not only aim to prevent early pregnancy but also guarantee the autonomy and comprehensive protection of adolescent girls' life plans in the Caribbean context of Colombia.

Keywords: Social Determinants of Health; Adolescent pregnancy Sexual and Reproductive Health.