Repeat pregnancies among adolescents in a tertiary hospital in Brazil

Abstract

Objective: to investigate factors associated with repeat pregnancies among adolescents in a tertiary hospital in the city of São Paulo, Brazil. Background: Teenage mothers present a high risk of repeat pregnancies during adolescence. Most of these pregnancies are unplanned. Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted in a tertiary hospital in São Paulo, Brazil. The study population included 745 first-time pregnancies and 170 two or more times pregnant teenagers hospitalised for childbirth. Logistic regression models were used to identify independent factors associated with repeat pregnancy in this population. Results: Older age at first pregnancy was associated with a decreased risk of repeat pregnancies (odds ratio and 95% confidence interval 0.78 (0.68–0.89)). Prenatal examinations (0.13 (0.05–0.32)), higher education (0.83 (0.76–0.91)) and higher monthly income (0.79 (0.67–0.95)) were also protective against repeat pregnancies. Those who used contraceptives (2.76 (1.80–4.21)) and lived with their partners (2.44 (1.53–3.88)) had an increased risk of becoming pregnant more than once. Conclusion: Preventive programmes aiming to avoid repeat pregnancies in adolescents should not be restricted to the transmission of information. Behavioural changes in family planning must include access not only to adequate information but also to adequate healthcare, contraceptive methods, education and training.