Socioeconomic Disparities and Teenage Pregnancy in Bayelsa State, Nigeria: Addressing the Inequality Challenge

Background and Objective: Teenage pregnancy remains a pressing global concern, with low-income countries reporting up to 15% of women giving birth before age 18 between 2015 and 2020. In Bayelsa State, Nigeria, this issue is exacerbated by pronounced socioeconomic disparities. This study aims to examine the relationship between teenage pregnancy and socioeconomic variables within Bayelsa State, to identify inequality patterns and propose strategies to mitigate them. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, quantitative study design was employed, incorporating both primary data collection and literature review. A structured survey was administered to 700 adolescent girls aged 15-19 across the three senatorial districts of Bayelsa State. Descriptive statistics, bivariate, and multivariate analyses were performed using SPSS (versions 18-21) and Microsoft Excel 2000. Key variables included education level, household income, occupation, and parental background. Results: Bivariate analysis revealed significant associations between teenage pregnancy and several socioeconomic factors. Girls with only secondary or primary education had odds ratios of 2.3 and 1.8, respectively. Household income levels of ₦50,000-100,000 and ₦100,000-200,000 were associated with odds ratios of 1.9 and 1.5, respectively. Unemployed adolescents and students had odds ratios of 2.1 and 1.6. Overall, factors such as education, income, parental care, and parental educational attainment showed strong links to increased risk of teenage pregnancy. Conclusion: The findings highlight critical socioeconomic determinants of teenage pregnancy in Bayelsa State. Addressing these disparities requires multi-level governmental and societal interventions. Future studies should explore targeted policy frameworks and longitudinal impacts of socioeconomic reforms on adolescent reproductive health.