A Multilevel Analysis of Factors Associated with Unintended Pregnancy in Kenya.

Abstract

Background: Unintended pregnancy is a significant health and social issue in Kenya. This study used data extracted from the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey, involving 10,302 women aged 15-49 to investigate the prevalence and associated factors. Descriptive statistics and multilevel logistic regression analysis were used to analyze the data.

Results: The study revealed that 40% of the pregnancies were unintended. Unintended pregnancy was significantly associated with various factors. Woman’s age affected the likelihood of unintended pregnancy, with women aged at least 20 years having lower odds compared to younger women. Education also affected the likelihood of unintended pregnancy, with higher education levels linked to higher odds. Married and formerly married women had lower odds of unintended pregnancy. Women with 4 or more children, and those exposed to mass media had higher odds. Ever use of contraceptives and knowledge of the fertile period were associated with higher odds. Occupation also affected unintended pregnancy, with professional/managerial jobs having lower odds, while domestic work linked to higher odds. Middle and higher wealth statuses were linked to lower odds. Both places and region of residence also affected the likelihood of unintended pregnancy with rural residence was associated with lower odds, and significant regional variations observed.

Conclusion: The study calls for comprehensive access to sexual and reproductive health services in order to reduce the high prevalence of unintended pregnancies in the country.