Mental Health in Pregnant Adolescents: Associations with Family Structure, Educational Continuity, and Marital Status

This study investigated the intricate relationship between sociodemographic factors and mental health indicators among a cohort of pregnant adolescents. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 338 primigravidas, aged 11-19 years, systematically collecting sociodemographic data, including age, socioeconomic status, schooling, occupation, marital status, and family structure. Mental health was assessed using validated scales for depressive symptoms (EPDS), state-trait anxiety inventory (STAI), self-esteem (Coopersmith), and perceived stress (PSS-4). A substantial portion of the cohort presented with significant mental health challenges: 33.5% screened positive for depressive symptoms, 18% for state anxiety, 23% for trait anxiety, 67% reported low self-esteem, and 52% experienced high perceived stress. Specifically, working adolescents exhibited markedly higher odds of depressive symptoms (OR 3.516), low self-esteem (OR 1.091), elevated state anxiety (OR 2.803), and increased trait anxiety (OR 2.455). Adolescents living with a partner also showed a greater likelihood of reporting depressive symptoms (OR 1.921), heightened state anxiety (OR 1.772), and increased trait anxiety (OR 2.335). Additionally, lower educational attainment (OR 1.885) and residing in extended family structures (OR 1.894) were associated with diminished self-esteem. These findings underscore the significant influence of occupation, family structure, and marital status on the mental health trajectories of pregnant adolescents. Consequently, promoting educational continuity and fostering greater autonomy in personal life decisions for adolescents could be crucial interventions to improve their emotional well-being during pregnancy.