# The Adverse Maternal Outcomes and Risk Factors of Adolescent Pregnancy: Evidence From a Retrospective Study in Astana, Kazakhstan

## TL;DR

This study in Kazakhstan finds that adolescent mothers face higher risks of certain infections compared to adult mothers, suggesting a need for better reproductive health services for teens.

## Contribution

The study provides new evidence on adolescent pregnancy outcomes in Kazakhstan, highlighting region-specific risk factors and healthcare needs.

## Key findings

- Adolescents had significantly higher rates of STIs and postpartum endometritis compared to adult mothers.
- Adult mothers experienced higher rates of PROM and fetal distress than adolescents.
- Adolescent pregnancy outcomes in Kazakhstan differ from other regions, likely due to healthcare access and sociocultural factors.

## Abstract

Adolescent pregnancy remains a global health concern. Evidence from Central Asia is limited, where sociocultural factors and evolving healthcare systems may influence outcomes. This study compared maternal and perinatal outcomes between adolescent and adult mothers in Astana, Kazakhstan.

A retrospective study was conducted among primigravid adolescents (10–19 years, n = 135) and adults (20–30 years, n = 106). Data extracted from an electronic MIS and analyzed using descriptive statistics.

No significant differences found between the groups in preeclampsia, PIH, or anemia rates. Adolescents had higher rates of STI (21.5% vs. 6.6%, p = 0.001) and postpartum endometritis (14.1% vs. 3.8%, p = 0.007). Adults exhibited higher rates of PROM (20.8% vs. 5.2%, p < 0.001) and fetal distress (64.3% vs. 18.5%, p < 0.001).

Adolescent pregnancy outcomes in Kazakhstan differ from other regions, likely reflecting distinct healthcare access and sociocultural factors. Targeted adolescent-friendly reproductive health services, routine STI screening, and supportivepolicies enabling early and confidential prenatal care are warranted to improve maternal and neonatal outcomes.