Socioeconomic determinants and pregnancy outcomes among adolescent mothers: A cross-sectional study in a tertiary care hospital in Amalapuram.

Chamundeswari  Chillapalli; Dr. Varada A.  Hasamnis; Chaganti  Vijaya

doi:10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i6.1975

Authors

Dr. Chamundeswari Chillapalli Postgraduate, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation , Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India
Dr. Varada A. Hasamnis Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation , Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India
Dr. Chaganti Vijaya Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation , Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i6.1975

Keywords:

Adolescent pregnancy, socioeconomic status, maternal complications, fetal outcomes, teenage mothers, anemia

Abstract

Background:
Adolescent pregnancy remains a major public health concern, particularly in developing countries, due to its association with adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. Various socioeconomic and educational factors significantly influence its prevalence and complications.

Objectives:

To assess the socioeconomic status and pregnancy outcomes of adolescent mothers and to identify key factors influencing maternal and fetal health.

Methods:

A prospective cohort study was conducted at KIMS and RF, Amalapuram, from November 2023 to November 2024. Fifty adolescent pregnant women (≤19 years) attending the OPD and labour room were included. Data regarding sociodemographic variables and pregnancy outcomes were collected using a semi-structured proforma and analyzed using SPSS version 22.

Results:

Most adolescent mothers (60%) were aged 18–19 years, and 70% were primigravida. A majority belonged to the upper-lower (40%) and lower (30%) socioeconomic classes. Anemia (40%) and IUGR (36%) were the most common antenatal complications. Preterm birth (24%) and IUGR (20%) were the predominant fetal outcomes. Postpartum complications included PPH (12%) and puerperal sepsis (8%).

Conclusion:

Adolescent pregnancy is more prevalent among socioeconomically disadvantaged, less-educated, and married teenage girls, with notable maternal and fetal complications. Strengthening adolescent education and healthcare access is vital.

Recommendations:

Implement adolescent health education, enforce child marriage laws, and improve access to antenatal care in rural areas to reduce complications.

Author Biographies

Dr. Chamundeswari Chillapalli, Postgraduate, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation , Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India

Postgraduate, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation, Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India. ORCID iD: https://orcid.org/0009-0007-5447-1763

Dr. Varada A. Hasamnis, Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation , Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India

is currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation, Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India. She obtained her MBBS degree from Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, followed by a Diploma in Obstetrics and Gynaecology from Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College, Mumbai. She further enhanced her academic and clinical expertise by completing a Fellowship in Midwifery and a Diploma in Family Planning from the College of Physicians and Surgeons, Mumbai. With over two decades of extensive clinical experience in women's health, Dr. Hasamnis has developed a strong academic and research portfolio. She has authored 25 scientific publications in reputed medical journals, reflecting her commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional development. ORCID iD: https://orcid.org 0009-0002-8860-7183

Dr. Chaganti Vijaya, Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation , Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India

is an Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Konaseema institute of Medical sciences &Research foundation, Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India. She completed her MBBS from Rangaraya Medical College, Kakinada, and M.S. in Obstetrics and Gynaecology from S V Medical College, Tirupati.ORCID iD: https://orcid.org 0009-0007-9141-5656

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