Unintended pregnancy and its determinants among women attending antenatal clinic at AIIMS Patna – A cross-sectional study

Background: Unintended pregnancies remain a global health challenge, impacting women, families, and societies. This study explores the determinants of unintended pregnancies among 289 participants at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Patna’s Antenatal Care (ANC) clinic. Methods: Using a cross-sectional design, data were collected through a structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic details, obstetric parameters, contraceptive practices, and knowledge about contraception. Logistic regression analysis was employed to identify independent predictors of unintended pregnancies. Results: Among 289 pregnant women attending the ANC clinic, 96 (33.2%) reported unintended pregnancies. Women aged 20–29 years (aOR: 0.41; 95% CI: 0.16–0.99) and ≥30 years (aOR: 0.28; 95% CI: 0.08–0.90) had lower odds of unintended pregnancy. Higher partner education was protective, while women with ≥2 living children had higher odds (aOR: 3.62; 95% CI: 1.15–11.0). Significant associations were also observed with age at marriage, gravida status, folic acid consumption, and contraceptive knowledge. Conclusion: This study provides insights into the determinants of unintended pregnancies among women attending AIIMS Patna’s ANC clinic at the tertiary care level. Findings emphasize the complex interplay of sociodemographic and obstetric factors in shaping pregnancy intentions. Addressing these determinants is crucial for developing targeted interventions aimed at reducing unintended pregnancies and improving reproductive health outcomes.