The hidden agony of young mothers: Health risks for teenagers in Uganda
While pregnancy is not a disease, young mothers in Uganda endure severe health complications that can be life-threatening.
Teenage pregnancies, which now account for 25% of all pregnancies in the country, pose significant public health challenges. These young mothers face complex conditions that drastically affect their health and that of their newborns.
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Teenage pregnancies are associated with severe health risks due to the physical immaturity of young mothers.
“Teenage pregnancies are also associated with other fetal complications, including preterm birth, fetal growth restriction, low birth weight, and infant deaths, particularly for younger adolescents,” notes Dr. Pascal Saturday, an obstetrician at Divine Mercy Hospital.
These complications are not merely medical issues; they present life-threatening conditions that jeopardize the well-being of both mother and child.
Supporting Dr. Pascal’s observations, the World Health Organization (WHO) highlights that complications during pregnancy and childbirth are the leading cause of death for girls aged 15-19 worldwide.
The strain of pregnancy at such a young age can lead to obstructed labor, severe anemia, and preeclampsia, all of which significantly increase the risk of mortality for both mother and infant.
The challenges extend beyond physical health to severe mental health issues. “Teenage pregnancies are at risk of postpartum depression,” Dr. Pascal adds.
The stigma and isolation often experienced by these young mothers, combined with a lack of adequate support, can exacerbate mental health struggles, further complicating their ability to care for themselves and their newborns.
Newborns of teenage mothers also face heightened risks. They are more likely to be born prematurely or with low birth weight, which can lead to long-term health issues such as malnutrition and developmental delays.
According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), this increased risk highlights the urgent need for comprehensive interventions to address the multifaceted challenges faced by teenage mothers and ensure better health outcomes for both them and their babies.
