Adolescent childbearing in developing countries: a global review

Abstract

This article discusses the current levels and recent trends in the rate of adolescent childbearing, the timing of the first birth, and births to unmarried women for 43 developing countries. Differences in rates of adolescent childbearing by residence and level of education are also examined. The analysis is based on nationally representative fertility surveys. Substantial declines in adolescent fertility have occurred in North Africa and Asia, but levels are still high in some countries. Declines are beginning to occur in sub-Saharan Africa, but current levels are still high in most countries of this region, and the proportion of births to unmarried adolescents is increasing in some countries. In Latin America, where the level of teenage childbearing is moderate, declines are less prevalent and some small increases have occurred. Higher education is associated with lower rates of adolescent childbearing, but other socioeconomic changes cancel or reduce this effect in several countries.

PIP: This study analyzed the most recent Demographic and Health Survey data available for 43 developing countries (20 in sub-Saharan Africa, 10 in Latin America, 5 in North Africa and the Near East, and 8 in Asia) to document current levels and recent trends in the rate of adolescent childbearing, the timing of first births, and births to unmarried women. The study also considered 1) socioeconomic differentials arising from urban or rural residence and educational attainment, 2) whether births to adolescents are planned, and 3) the consequences of unsafe abortion. In some developing countries, adolescent childbearing is increasing while in others it is decreasing, and more countries are recognizing the problems associated with adolescent childbearing. The analysis revealed that some sub-Saharan countries are experiencing a reduction in the rate of adolescent childbearing, but the proportion of adolescent births will continue to increase unless unmarried couples adopt contraception. Unexpected small decreases and increases in adolescent childbearing occurred in Latin America. The largest and most uniform declines in early childbearing occurred in North Africa and Asia along with increases in the age at first marriage. Increasing opportunities for girls to achieve secondary education and postpone marriage lengthen the period when women risk unmarried pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. Available evidence points to the need to address unplanned pregnancy and abortion among adolescents.