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Effect of Early Marriage on Maternal Health in Choba Port Harcourt

Prof Innime RIGHTEOUS, PhD, PhD, FAIPH, FAPHA and Umasom EREMONI JOHN PhD

Abstract

Early marriage, defined as a formal or informal union before the age of 18, remains a critical social issue with significant implications for maternal health, particularly in developing countries. This study examined the effect of early marriage on maternal health among nursing mothers attending selected Maternal Clinics in Choba Port Harcourt. The research employed a descriptive survey design, with a total sample of 100 nursing mothers selected purposively. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire divided into sections on demographic information and maternal health outcomes. The instrument’s validity was ensured through expert review and content validation. Responses were analyzed using frequency tables, percentages, and Chi-Square (?²) statistics to test the stated hypotheses. Findings revealed that early marriage is strongly associated with adverse maternal health outcomes. Adolescent mothers were found to face increased risks of complications such as obstructed labor, preeclampsia, postpartum hemorrhage, and higher maternal mortality. Additionally, early marriage often limits young girls’ access to education and healthcare, restricts their decision- making autonomy, and exacerbates socio-economic vulnerabilities, which collectively contribute to poor maternal health outcomes. Cultural norms and economic pressures were identified as significant drivers of early marriage, further reinforcing these health risks. The study recommends a multi-pronged approach to address the issue, including improving access to healthcare, promoting girls’ education, challenging harmful cultural practices, strengthening legal frameworks, and implementing empowerment programs for adolescent mothers. By adopting these measures, policymakers, healthcare providers, and communities can mitigate the negative effects of early marriage on maternal health, improve adolescent girls’ well-being, and contribute to broader public health and gend

Keywords

EffectEarlyMarriageMaternalHealth

References

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