Harmful Traditional Practice of Early Marriage among Adolescent Girls

Objectives:
- Analyze prevalence of early marriage among adolescent girls in Egypt.
- Recognize misbelieves of female early marriage.
- Identify the common hazards of young bride.
Background:
Child marriage is a gratification for overcoming the family’s financial and social needs. Adolescent childbearing carries higher risks of morbidity and mortality for the mother and child.
Methodology:
A total of 245 adult women aged 15-49 years were surveyed in the period from July 2011 to February 2012. A standard questionnaire in semi structured interview was used in surveillance.
Results and Findings:
The study revealed that 10 percent of women were married at age 15-19 and 90 % of them were pregnant with their first child at this age.
About 85% consider early marriage to get rid of girl’s burden. 62% feels that it is a religious demand, and 50% think that it prevents adultery.
The incidence of anemia with pregnancy 42%, pregnancy induced hypertension 12%, abortion 20%, premature labor 7% and cesarean delivery 33%. Divorce occurred in 14.4%, physical violence 33%, sexual violence 8% and illiteracy in 44.5%.
Conclusions:
Raising community awareness proved to be more successful in preventing child marriages than banning. Reproductive health agencies should contribute by offering proper health education and counseling.