Full Project – CORRELATES OF UNWANTED PREGNANCY AND ABORTION ATTEMPTS AMONG UNDERGRADUATES IN A NIGERIAN UNIVERSITY

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TABLE OF CONTENT

ABSTRACT

CHAPTER ONE

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

1.3 PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

1.5 HYPOTHESES

1.6 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

1.7 DELIMITATION OF THE STUDY

CHAPTER TWO

2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Induced abortion among female youths

2.2 Concept of Student pregnancy

2.3 Social Factors Associated With Student pregnancy

2.4 Psychological Factors Associated with Student pregnancy

2.5 Consequences of Student pregnancy

2.6 Review of Related Empirical Studies

CHAPTER THREE

3.0 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 RESEARCH DESIGN

3.2 AREA OF THE STUDY

3.3 POPULATION OF THE STUDY

3.4 SAMPLE AND SAMPLING TECHNIQUES

3.5 INSTRUMENT FOR DATA COLLECTION

3.6 VALIDATION OF THE INSTRUMENT

3.7 METHOD OF DATA COLLECTION

3.8 METHOD OF DATA ANALYSIS

CHAPTER FOUR

4.0 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

4.1 RESULTS

4.2 SUMMARY OF FINDINGS

CHAPTER FIVE

5.0 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1 CONCLUSION OF THE STUDY

5.2 EDUCATIONAL IMPLICATIONS OF THE STUDY

5.3 RECOMMENDATION OF THE STUDY

REFERENCES

ABSTRACT

This research work was designed on the Correlates of unwanted pregnancy and Abortion attempts among undergraduates in a Nigerian University. The researcher adopted a descriptive survey research design in carrying out this study. The sample consists of 200 respondents. A simple random sampling technique was used to draw the sample for the study. A researcher constructed instrument was used to collect data. Findings among other things include that economic factors, psychological factors, social factors and adolescent sexual behaviour are the perceived factors associated with student pregnancy and abortion as well as how it affects girl child education. The study recommended that the Government should develop targeted interventions and educational programs that address the unique challenges faced by different subgroups of students, such as those from low-income backgrounds or marginalized communities..

CHAPTER ONE

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Pregnancy is the common name for gestation in humans. It is the development of one or more offspring, known as an embryo or fetus in the uterus (Wikipedia 2009). Pregnancy usually lasts for about nine (9) months in human beings. At this stage the embryo is developing offspring during the first 8 weeks following conception, and subsequently the term fetus is used until child birth. In many societies, medical or legal definitions of human pregnancy is somewhat arbitrarily divided into three trimester periods of three months each as a means to simplify reference to the different stages of pre-natal development.

The first trimester carries the highest risk of miscarriage (natural death of embryo or fetus). During the second trimester the development of the fetus can be more easily monitored and diagnosed. The third trimester is marked by further growth of the fetus and the development of fetal fat stores (Wikipedia 2009).

Abortion is the expulsion of the offspring in a state of development from the womb between one to seven months of pregnancy, which is giving birth before the right time. In most cases of abortion is referred to as miscarriage of birth. Abortion should be considered as a lifesaving situation due to illness. But however it is being practice at will due to societal changes and orientations. It is a situation where life is being tempered and it is becoming too dangerous and threatening to the life of the mother.

Unwanted pregnancy and abortion attempts among undergraduates in Nigerian universities are significant public health concerns. Several studies have explored the correlates of these issues, aiming to identify factors that contribute to their occurrence. One important correlate is age. Research has shown that younger undergraduates are more likely to experience unwanted pregnancies and attempt abortions compared to their older counterparts. This could be attributed to a lack of knowledge about contraception and reproductive health among younger students.

Furthermore, cultural and religious beliefs play a significant role in shaping attitudes towards unwanted pregnancy and abortion among Nigerian undergraduates. Research has shown that students who adhere to conservative religious beliefs are less likely to consider abortion as an option, even in cases of unwanted pregnancies. This can lead to increased psychological distress and a higher likelihood of unsafe abortion attempts. Understanding and addressing these cultural and religious factors is crucial in developing effective interventions to prevent unwanted pregnancies and reduce abortion attempts among Nigerian undergraduates.

Abortion is also a form of removing pregnancy from the womb, either by taking pills (medical abortion) which involves taking medicines to cause miscarriage or by surgery (surgical abortion) where the pregnancy is removed from the womb. Most abortions can be provided on a daycare basis which means you do not need to stay at a clinic overnight. Every year almost 12,000 thousand teenage girls have abortion (Bpas 2009).

Abortion consists of two types which are the PILLS and SURGICAL abortion. The pills abortion is used after 9 to 24 weeks of pregnancy which involves taking of medicines to cause the womb to contract and push out the pregnancy. Also from 22 weeks after which the pregnancy is push out and an injection to the womb is given. Such injections are given to ensure the homeostatic balance of the uterus. However a checkup visit to the clinic is also required.

Surgical abortion is the dilation and evacuation of the fetus which takes up to 15 to 24 weeks of the pregnancy. In surgical abortion the doctors are required to remove the pregnancy using narrow forceps passed through the neck of the womb. This form of abortion is carried out under general anesthetic conditions (asleep). In surgical abortions, one can visit the clinic and return home the same day of abortion (for pregnancy up to 20 weeks) (Bpass 2009).

Abortion is obviously increasing and identified as a social problem in so many ways, it destabilizes the teenager’s educational career as a useful member of the society. She is out rightly stigmatized by the society and in the long run turns the girl into a prostitute. Another major incidence of pregnancy and abortion is the socio-cultural background of people within Numan Local Government. This is attributed to the orientation or beliefs which subjected the girl-child to early hawking at a very tender age of about nine or ten years. These inappropriate exposures make her vulnerable as well asthe deceitfulness of irresponsible young boys and old men, usually compromise with her innocence.

It is a common fact that the impact of pregnancy and abortion on girl-child education in our secondary schools is spreading in our communities and this need to be eradicated or reduced in the Local Government. In other words to solve this problem the parents and teachers should mould their children to be better adults. The government should introduce sex education in our secondary schools and tertiary institutions,’ and introduce relevant academic curriculum in order to reduce the cases of unwanted pregnancy.

Another important correlate is relationship status. Studies have found that undergraduates who are in committed relationships are less likely to experience unwanted pregnancies and attempt abortions. This could be due to the presence of emotional and financial support from their partners, which reduces the likelihood of unintended pregnancies. On the other hand, single undergraduates may engage in risky sexual behaviors, leading to higher rates of unwanted pregnancies and abortion attempts.

Socioeconomic status is also a significant correlate of unwanted pregnancy and abortion attempts among undergraduates. Research has shown that students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds are more likely to experience these issues compared to their wealthier peers. This could be attributed to limited access to reproductive health services, including contraception, as well as a lack of comprehensive sex education. Additionally, financial constraints may prevent students from seeking safe and legal abortion services, leading to unsafe abortion attempts.

The influence of peer pressure and social norms cannot be overlooked when examining the correlates of unwanted pregnancy and abortion attempts among undergraduates. Studies have found that undergraduates who perceive their peers as engaging in risky sexual behaviors are more likely to experience unwanted pregnancies and attempt abortions themselves. This highlights the importance of peer education and support in promoting responsible sexual behaviors and reducing the incidence of unwanted pregnancies.

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Unwanted pregnancy and abortion attempts among undergraduates in Nigerian universities have become a pressing issue in recent years. This problem has serious implications for the physical, emotional, and social well-being of the individuals involved. Unplanned pregnancies can disrupt educational pursuits, hinder career aspirations, and lead to psychological distress. Additionally, unsafe abortion attempts can result in severe health complications and even death. Therefore, it is crucial to identify the correlates of unwanted pregnancy and abortion attempts among undergraduates in order to develop effective interventions and policies to address this issue.

One of the key factors contributing to unwanted pregnancy and abortion attempts among undergraduates is the lack of comprehensive sexual education. Many Nigerian universities do not provide adequate information and resources on contraception, safe sex practices, and reproductive health. This knowledge gap leaves students vulnerable to unintended pregnancies and increases the likelihood of resorting to unsafe abortion methods. Additionally, societal stigma surrounding premarital sex and abortion further exacerbates the problem, as it discourages open discussions and access to reproductive healthcare services.

Another important correlate of unwanted pregnancy and abortion attempts among undergraduates is the influence of peer pressure and social norms. Students often face pressure from their peers to engage in risky sexual behaviors without considering the potential consequences. The desire to fit in and conform to societal expectations can lead to unprotected sex and subsequent unwanted pregnancies. Moreover, the fear of judgment and ostracization prevents many students from seeking help or support when faced with an unintended pregnancy, pushing them towards unsafe abortion attempts.

Financial constraints also play a significant role in the occurrence of unwanted pregnancy and abortion attempts among undergraduates. Many students struggle to afford contraception methods and reproductive healthcare services, making them more susceptible to unintended pregnancies. The high cost of safe abortion procedures further limits their options, forcing some individuals to resort to unsafe methods that pose serious health risks. Addressing the financial barriers to accessing reproductive healthcare is crucial in reducing the prevalence of unwanted pregnancies and unsafe abortions among undergraduates.

Furthermore, cultural and religious beliefs contribute to the problem of unwanted pregnancy and abortion attempts among undergraduates. In Nigeria, where conservative values are deeply ingrained, premarital sex and abortion are often considered taboo. This leads to a lack of open dialogue and limited access to accurate information about reproductive health. The influence of cultural and religious norms can create a hostile environment for students seeking support or guidance regarding contraception and pregnancy options, further perpetuating the problem.

Again, the limited availability and accessibility of reproductive healthcare services within Nigerian universities contribute to the high rates of unwanted pregnancy and abortion attempts. Many universities lack well-equipped health centers that can provide comprehensive reproductive healthcare services, including contraception counseling, pregnancy testing, and safe abortion procedures. This lack of infrastructure and resources leaves students with limited options and increases the likelihood of resorting to unsafe abortion methods.

The correlates of unwanted pregnancy and abortion attempts among undergraduates in Nigerian universities are multifaceted and interconnected. The lack of comprehensive sexual education, peer pressure, financial constraints, cultural and religious beliefs, and limited access to reproductive healthcare services all contribute to this pressing issue. Addressing these correlates requires a comprehensive approach that includes improving sexual education programs, promoting open dialogue, reducing financial barriers, challenging societal norms, and enhancing the availability and accessibility of reproductive healthcare services within universities. By addressing these factors, we can work towards reducing the prevalence of unwanted pregnancies and unsafe abortions among undergraduates in Nigerian universities.

1.3 PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

The purpose of the study is to examine the Correlates of unwanted pregnancy and Abortion attempts among undergraduates in a Nigerian University. The specific objectives of the study are to:

Find out the economic factors associated with student pregnancy and abortion.

Examine the social and psychological factors associated with student pregnancy and abortion.

Find out the adolescent sexual behaviours associated with student pregnancy and abortion.

Evaluate the consequences of student pregnancy and abortion.

1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

The research questions are buttressed below:

What are the economic factors associated with student pregnancy and abortion?

What are the social and psychological factors associated with student pregnancy and abortion?

What are adolescent sexual behaviours associated with student pregnancy and abortion?

What are the consequences of student pregnancy and abortion?

1.5 HYPOTHESES

The research hypothesis for the study are indicated below:

HO: Unwanted pregnancy and Abortion has no effect on undergraduates in a Nigerian University

H1: Unwanted pregnancy and Abortion has effect on undergraduates in a Nigerian University

1.6 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

Unwanted pregnancy and abortion attempts among undergraduates in Nigerian universities are significant public health concerns. These issues not only have physical and emotional consequences for the individuals involved but also impact the overall well-being of the society. Understanding the correlates of unwanted pregnancy and abortion attempts is crucial for developing effective interventions and policies to address these issues.

One of the key reasons for conducting this study is the lack of comprehensive research on this topic in the Nigerian context. While there have been studies on unwanted pregnancy and abortion attempts among adolescents and adults, there is a dearth of research specifically focusing on undergraduates in Nigerian universities. This study aims to fill this gap in the literature and provide valuable insights into the factors associated with unwanted pregnancy and abortion attempts in this population.

Another rationale for this study is the need to identify the specific correlates of unwanted pregnancy and abortion attempts among undergraduates. By examining factors such as age, socioeconomic status, educational background, relationship status, and access to reproductive health services, this study seeks to uncover the underlying determinants of these outcomes. Such knowledge can inform the development of targeted interventions and policies that address the unique needs and challenges faced by undergraduates in Nigerian universities.

Furthermore, this study is important for understanding the consequences of unwanted pregnancy and abortion attempts among undergraduates. Unplanned pregnancies can have detrimental effects on the educational attainment and future prospects of young individuals. Similarly, unsafe abortion attempts can lead to serious health complications and even mortality. By exploring the correlates of these outcomes, this study aims to shed light on the potential consequences and inform strategies for prevention and support.

Additionally, this study is relevant in the context of reproductive health rights and access to services. Nigeria has a complex legal and social landscape surrounding abortion, with restrictive laws and stigmatization. By examining the correlates of unwanted pregnancy and abortion attempts, this study can contribute to the ongoing discourse on reproductive rights and advocate for improved access to safe and legal abortion services for undergraduates.

Again, this study has practical implications for universities and policymakers. By identifying the correlates of unwanted pregnancy and abortion attempts, this research can inform the development of comprehensive sexual and reproductive health programs on campuses. It can also guide the formulation of policies that promote the well-being and rights of undergraduates, ensuring that they have access to the necessary resources and support to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.

This study on the correlates of unwanted pregnancy and abortion attempts among undergraduates in a Nigerian University is essential for addressing the public health challenges associated with these issues. By filling the research gap, identifying the determinants, understanding the consequences, advocating for reproductive rights, and informing interventions and policies, this study can contribute to the overall well-being and empowerment of undergraduates in Nigerian universities.

1.7. SCOPE OF THE STUDY

The study examines Correlates of unwanted pregnancy and Abortion attempts among undergraduates in a Nigerian University. The study is limited to selected University in Nigeria.

1.8 OPERATIONAL DEFINITION OF TERMS

The following are the definition of terms:

Unwanted pregnancy: An unwanted pregnancy refers to a pregnancy that occurs when a person does not desire or intend to become pregnant. It can be a result of contraceptive failure, lack of access to contraception, or non-use of contraception.

Abortion: Abortion is the termination of a pregnancy before the fetus can survive outside the uterus. It can be induced through medical procedures or medications, or it can occur naturally, known as a miscarriage.

Undergraduates: Undergraduates are students who are pursuing their first degree at a university or college. They are typically enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program and have not yet completed their studies.

University: A university is an institution of higher education that offers academic programs and grants degrees in various fields of study. It is typically composed of multiple faculties or schools, such as the Faculty of Arts, Faculty of Science, or Faculty of Engineering.

Sexual behavior: Sexual behavior refers to the actions, attitudes, and practices related to human sexuality. It encompasses a wide range of activities, including sexual intercourse, masturbation, oral sex, and other forms of sexual expression.

Student pregnancy: Student pregnancy refers to the occurrence of pregnancy among students, particularly those who are enrolled in educational institutions such as universities or colleges. It can have significant implications for the individual’s educational attainment and overall well-being.

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Full Project – CORRELATES OF UNWANTED PREGNANCY AND ABORTION ATTEMPTS AMONG UNDERGRADUATES IN A NIGERIAN UNIVERSITY

Full Project – CORRELATES OF UNWANTED PREGNANCY AND ABORTION ATTEMPTS AMONG UNDERGRADUATES IN A NIGERIAN UNIVERSITY

Full Project – CORRELATES OF UNWANTED PREGNANCY AND ABORTION ATTEMPTS AMONG UNDERGRADUATES IN A NIGERIAN UNIVERSITY

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