Obstetric Complications Associated With Adolescent Pregnancy At Livingstone University Teaching Hospital

  1. Natasha Chishala
  2. Joreen P. Povia
  3. Nestorine N. Ngongo
  4. Joel M. Chisanga
  5. Timothy Mabuku
  6. Emmanuel Yumba
  7. Emmanuel Riwo
  8. Salma M. Baines
  9. Prince Mulambo
  10. Steven Kumeleni
  11. Lukundo Siame
  12. Bislom C. Mweene
  13. Katongo H. Mutengo
  14. Chileleko Siakabanze
  15. Emmanuel Luwaya
  16. Hanzooma Hatwiko
  17. Patson Sichamba
  18. Martin Chakulya
  19. Sepiso K. Masenga
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Abstract

Background

Adolescent pregnancy remains a major public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa, where limited data exist on region-specific obstetric complications. This study aimed to identify factors associated with maternal morbidity among adolescents at a tertiary referral hospital in Zambia.

Methods

A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted using records of 407 adolescents (10– 19 years) admitted to Livingstone University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) between January 2023 and December 2024. Sociodemographic, clinical, and laboratory variables were evaluated against primary outcomes (preterm labour, preeclampsia/eclampsia, haemorrhage) using multivariable logistic regression. Data were analysed in Statcrunch, with results reported as adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

The median age was 17 years (IQR 16–18); 90 adolescents (22.1%) experienced ≥1 maternal complication. In multivariable analysis, adverse birth outcomes (preterm delivery or intrauterine death) were associated with 14-fold higher odds of maternal complications (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 14.3, 95% CI 4.9–42.1; p < 0.0001). Each additional week of gestation was protective (AOR 0.7, 95% CI 0.6–0.8; p < 0.0001). Other factors including age, residence, employment status, parity, foetal complications, and proteinuria were not independently significant.

Conclusions

Nearly one in five adolescent pregnancies at LUTH is complicated by serious maternal morbidity. Adverse birth outcomes and gestational age emerge as powerful independent predictors. These findings underscore the urgent need for interventions to prevent pre-eclampsia, optimize timing of delivery, and improve perinatal care among adolescents in resource-constrained settings. Prospective, multicentre studies including neonatal outcomes are warranted to guide comprehensive adolescent-focused maternal health strategies.

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