Pathways to Adolescent Pregnancy in Southeast Asia: Qualitative Evidence From Lived Experiences of Girls in Four Countries

Historically, adolescent pregnancy has been conceptualized as an outcome of child marriage, but in Southeast Asia, the contexts and drivers of adolescent pregnancy are less well-understood. This study examines the relationship between adolescent pregnancy and child marriage and explores the drivers of pregnancy in Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao People's Democratic Republic and Malaysia among adolescents who have experienced pregnancy.

Citation:
Habito M, Kennedy EC, Bell S, Wong S, ……. Azzopardi PS. Pathways to Adolescent Pregnancy in Southeast Asia: Qualitative Evidence From Lived Experiences of Girls in Four Countries. Journal of Adolescent Health. 2025.

Keywords:
Adolescent pregnancy; Child marriage and early union; Contraception; Sexual and reproductive health

Abstract:
Historically, adolescent pregnancy has been conceptualized as an outcome of child marriage, but in Southeast Asia, the contexts and drivers of adolescent pregnancy are less well-understood. This study examines the relationship between adolescent pregnancy and child marriage and explores the drivers of pregnancy in Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao People's Democratic Republic and Malaysia among adolescents who have experienced pregnancy.