Abstract
Unintended pregnancy among female adolescents is a global phenomenon and remains a significant
problem. It occurs in both developed and developing nations but with variations in degree and consequences on the social
factors involved. Globally, sub-Saharan Africa ranks highest in teenage pregnancy and lowest in contraceptive use.
Recent estimates by World Health Organization show that 16 million girls aged between 15 and 19 give birth every year.
In Nigeria nearly one-quarter (23%) of adolescent girls are already mothers or pregnant with their first child. The aim of
this study was to determine the perception of adolescents in secondary school towards the prevention of teenage
pregnancy. Some factors perceived by the students to influence teenage pregnancy include family type (73.9%), religion
(73.9%), peer pressure (88.7%), and poverty (83.7%). The students also believed teenage pregnancy brings disgrace
(78.8%), prevents one from finishing school education (83.7%) and could lead to abortion (73.9%). Students perceived
that parents have a role to play in preventing teenage pregnancy by monitoring their children’s movement (69%), give
sex education (70.4%) and know their children’s friends (69%). They also agree that teenagers too can prevent early
pregnancy by not having premarital sex (76.3%), travel in groups to avoid sexual harassment (78.8%) and make their
movements known (59.1%). Sex education that is responsible and medically accurate both in school and at home is
important in the prevention of teenage pregnancy. Increased uptake and use of contraception will also help to reduce
teenage pregnancy.