Abstract
Introduction: Teenage pregnancy is a major public health problem in low- and middle-income countries like Nepal. It increases medical and social risks for both mother and child.
Methods: This hospital-based comparative cross-sectional study was done at a tertiary care center in Nepal from July 2025 to March 2026. A total of 178 pregnant women were included. Group A had 89 teenage mothers (aged <20 years). Group B had 89 adult mothers (aged 20–34 years). Data were collected using a structured proforma. Maternal complications like anemia, hypertension, gestational diabetes mellitus, preterm labor, obstetric cholestasis, and postpartum hemorrhage were compared between groups. Chi-square test and independent t-test were used. A p-value <0.05 was considered significant.
Results: Mean age was 18.17 ± 1.97 years in Group A and 29.66 ± 3.26 years in Group B. Anemia and hypertension were significantly higher in teenage mothers. Obstetric cholestasis was more common in teenagers but the difference was not significant. There was no significant difference in gestational diabetes, preterm labor, or postpartum hemorrhage. Cesarean section was significantly more common in adult mothers.
Conclusion: Teenage pregnancy has higher risks of anemia and hypertension. Strengthening adolescent health programs, improving antenatal nutrition, and delaying early marriage may help reduce these complications in Nepal.
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