Young Adult’s Perspectives and Recommendations on Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention in San Cristobal, Galapagos, Ecuador

Introduction: Adolescent pregnancy is linked to serious morbidity and mortality in women and newborns. Ecuador stands out in Latin America with a high prevalence and maternal mortality rates among adolescents. Despite nationwide concern, little is known about adolescent pregnancy in the Galapagos Islands of Ecuador. A prior study exploring major social issues in the Galapagos revealed adolescent pregnancy as a critical issue in the Galapagos. This study aims to understand young adults’ perspectives on adolescent pregnancy prevention education in Galapagos, Ecuador, by exploring their previous experiences, community attitudes, and preferences on pregnancy prevention education in adolescence. Methods: This qualitative descriptive study used in-depth interviews to explore young adults’ perspectives and recommendations on adolescent pregnancy prevention education. The sample consisted of 20 participants aged 18-24 who resided on San Cristobal Island and were fluent in Spanish. Content analysis was used to define major themes. Results: Three major themes and eleven subthemes emerged from the in-depth interviews: (1) Previous adolescent prevention education received, (2) Attitudes and behaviors of the community that influence adolescent pregnancy, and (3) Preferences and recommendations for adolescent pregnancy prevention. Conclusion: The findings of this study revealed that adolescents experienced challenges in understanding and engagement in sexual and reproductive health education due to poor pregnancy prevention education in adolescence. Participants suggested positive attitudes and improving educational programs that include culturally relevant interventions in the Galapagos communities to enhance sexual and reproductive health literacy.