EC Gynaecology

Background: Adolescent pregnancy remains a major public health issue, with an estimated 21 million pregnancies annually among girls aged 15 - 19 in developing regions [1]. Contraceptive awareness is a key factor in preventing unintended teen pregnancies, yet disparities exist in knowledge and access. This meta-analysis evaluates the association between contraception awareness and teen pregnancy rates.

Methods: We systematically searched PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane Library (2000-2023) for observational and intervention studies. Pooled odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed via I² statistics.

Results: Among 1,250 screened studies, 22 met inclusion criteria (total N = 98,456 adolescents). Higher contraception awareness was associated with a 32% reduction in teen pregnancy (OR: 0.68, 95% CI: 0.59-0.79, p < 0.001). Subgroup analyses showed stronger effects in high-income countries (OR: 0.61) versus low-income countries (OR: 0.75). School-based interventions had the greatest impact (OR: 0.55).

Conclusion: Improved contraception awareness significantly lowers teen pregnancy rates; particularly where comprehensive sex education exists. Policy efforts should expand access to adolescent-friendly contraceptive services.

 Keywords: Adolescent Pregnancy; Contraceptive Knowledge; Meta-Analysis; Health Education; Unintended Pregnancy

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