Prevalence, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Non-Marital Pregnancy among Adolescents in Mbandaka, Democratic Republic of Congo: A 2024 Cross-Sectional Study
Abstract
Background
Non-marital pregnancy among adolescents is a critical public health issue in sub-Saharan Africa, yet localized data remain scarce for many urban areas in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This study aimed to determine the prevalence, associated factors, attitudes, and practices regarding non-marital pregnancies among adolescents in Mbandaka, Équateur Province, in 2024.
Methods
A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 271 participants (151 adolescents aged 15–19 years, 60 mothers of adolescents, and 60 health workers) selected via stratified two-stage random sampling across three health zones in Mbandaka. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression.
Results
Among adolescents, 41% had experienced a pregnancy, all of which were non-marital. While 82% reported being sexually active, only 23% used any contraceptive method. Knowledge of contraceptive methods was low (18%), despite 73% reporting having received some form of sex education. The majority (62%) were students, yet 46% of those pregnant had dropped out of school. Poverty (48%), lack of sex education, and limited access to reproductive health services were cited by health workers as primary drivers. Parental dialogue on sexuality (64%) was associated with better knowledge (OR=2.1, p<0.001). Stigmatization was reported by 22% of adolescents, while 41% were unsure. Most adolescents (60%) desired a dedicated sexual education center.
Conclusion
Non-marital pregnancy among adolescents in Mbandaka is highly prevalent and driven by early sexual debut, extremely low contraceptive use, inadequate practical sex education, and socioeconomic vulnerability. Multisectoral interventions including comprehensive sexuality education, youth-friendly reproductive health services, and family dialogue are urgently needed.
Keywords
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How to cite
Eambela Nzaloka, M. (2026). Prevalence, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Non-Marital Pregnancy among Adolescents in Mbandaka, Democratic Republic of Congo: A 2024 Cross-Sectional Study. SDF Journal of Public Health. https://sfoundation.one/articles/sdf-2026-0020-prevalence-attitudes-and-practices-regarding-non-marital-pregnancy-amo