Perceived Facilitators and Barriers to Interventions Aimed at Reducing Unintended Pregnancies among Adolescents in Low and Middle Income (Developing) Countries- A Systematic Review

Adolescent pregnancies are most often the result of sexual risk taking. Adolescent birth rates in low and middle income countries lag behind those of higher income countries. The review’s objective was to present the best available evidence on facilitators and barriers to programs targeting a reduction in pregnancies among adolescents in low and middle income countries. Qualitative studies focused on interventions to persons aged 10 to 19 years residing in low and middle income countries of the world and factors that could influence those interventions were considered.
The review identified 8 perceived barriers and 3 perceived facilitators from 11 synthesized findings. Some perceived barriers were inadequate adult/parental support, negative perceptions about contraception, sex as a resource, lack of open sexual discourse, subordination of females to males and non-friendly institutions. Perceived facilitators were supportive institutions, families and parents, and adolescents’ determination not to be pregnant early in life.
A friendly approach to care, societal support and open discourse on sexual issues could facilitate a reduction of unintended pregnancies. Further research of myths against contraception use, cultural norms encouraging female subordination among others could guide pregnancy prevention programs.