Socioeconomic and Sociocultural Determinants of Unplanned Pregnancies Among Women of Reproductive Age: Evidence from Nyagatare District Hospital, Rwanda
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31305/ijmds.v15n09.005Keywords:
Unplanned pregnancies, family planning, reproductive health, socioeconomic factors, sociocultural determinants, RwandaAbstract
Unplanned pregnancies remain a significant public health challenge in Sub-Saharan Africa, with profound implications for maternal and child health outcomes. Despite national efforts to improve reproductive health services in Rwanda, unplanned pregnancies persist, particularly in rural districts. This study investigated factors associated with unplanned pregnancies and assessed the effectiveness of mitigation methods among women of reproductive age attending Nyagatare District Hospital, Rwanda. A mixed-methods approach combining descriptive cross-sectional and triangulation designs was employed. Data were collected from 248 respondents (198 women of reproductive age via questionnaires and 50 hospital service providers through interviews). Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, linear regression, logistic regression, and ANOVA using SPSS version 25. Qualitative data were thematically analyzed to complement quantitative findings. The study revealed that 85.9% of respondents identified lack of access to contraceptives as a major contributor to unplanned pregnancies, while 85.9% cited inadequate reproductive health education. Socioeconomic factors including low education (83.4% agreement), poverty (85.9%), limited healthcare access (82.3%), and teen pregnancy (85.8%) were significantly associated with unplanned pregnancies (R = 0.399, R² = 0.159, p < .001). Sociocultural factors—cultural norms (78.4%), religious beliefs (78.3%), early marriage (78.3%), and peer/family influence (78.3%)—also predicted unplanned pregnancies (R = 0.394, R² = 0.155, p < .001). Regarding mitigation, 84.3% reported using contraceptives, and regression analysis showed that family planning methods significantly reduced unplanned pregnancies (R = 0.422, R² = 0.178, F = 42.30, p < .001). Unplanned pregnancies in Nyagatare District are strongly influenced by structural, socioeconomic, and sociocultural barriers. While family planning mitigation methods show effectiveness, comprehensive interventions addressing poverty, education, healthcare access, and cultural norms are essential for sustainable reduction of unplanned pregnancies.
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