Knowledge Requirements and Health Behavioral Determinants among Adolescent Pregnant Women: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Adolescent pregnancy remains a critical public health challenge globally, with disproportionate adverse impacts in low- and middle-income countries. Nepal experiences elevated rates of adolescent pregnancy, which substantially contributes to adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Objective: This study sought to comprehensively assess the knowledge requirements, identify determinants of health practices, and establish baseline data for developing targeted interventions among adolescent pregnant women residing in Palpa District, Nepal.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 258 adolescent pregnant women  (aged 10-19 years) who were receiving antenatal care in health institutions within the Palpa District. Data were collected using structured questionnaires administered by trained personnel. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, ANOVA, and linear regression, all
performed using SPSS version 23.0.

Results: The mean age of participants was 17.94±1.03 years, with 55% in their second trimester. Key knowledge requirements included antenatal care (90.7%), antenatal check-ups (89.5%), pregnancy complication management (88.4%), and nutrition (82.6%). The Health Practice Questionnaire (HPQ-II) mean score was 115.67±8.08. Significant associations (p<0.05) were found between health behaviors and educational status, perceived economic level, planned pregnancy, antenatal follow-up frequency, abortion history, and living arrangements.

Conclusions: Adolescent pregnant women exhibited substantial knowledge gaps requiring targeted educational interventions. Furthermore, their health behaviors were significantly influenced by socioeconomic and demographic factors. The findings support the need for adolescent-friendly reproductive health services and comprehensive prenatal education programs.