Perceived risk factors for adolescent pregnancy in rural Paraguay

Abstract Purpose Adolescent pregnancy creates challenges worldwide and manifests in both developing and developed countries. Little research has been done on factors contributing to adolescent pregnancy in Paraguay, especially among rural populations that also include indigenous people. Anecdotal information from these areas typifies adolescent pregnancy as high as 50–80%. Methods A qualitative study including a semi-structured interview was conducted to explore perceived risks for adolescent pregnancy in Paraguay. Adults who work closely with adolescents in school, community activities, or health clinics were interviewed. Thematic analysis was used to identify the most common factors leading adolescents to become pregnant. Results The factors identified include school non-attendance, inadequate sex education, social pressure, widespread cultural acceptance, limited life opportunities, and poor communication. In addition, participants identified possible interventions to mitigate the perceived risk factors. Conclusions Among possible interventions, the most voiced method was to provide culturally appropriate school-based comprehensive sex education. Such education based on the internationally acclaimed guidelines from the WHO and UNESCO could be culturally modified. It is appropriate to include families in the teaching as the Paraguayan minister of education has proclaimed the traditional family will play a role in the upcoming reform of sex education.