SOCIO-ECONOMIC EFFECTS OF UNWANTED PREGNANCY IN ANKPA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KOGI STATE.

Unwanted pregnancy remains a critical public health challenge with far-reaching socio-economic implications, particularly in developing regions like Nigeria. This study investigated the socio-economic impact of unwanted pregnancy in Ankpa Local Government Area (LGA) of Kogi State, Nigeria. The research aimed to examine the prevalence of unwanted pregnancy and analyse its socio-economic effects within the study area. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, targeting women of reproductive age (15-49 years) as the primary population. Using Yamane's formula, a sample size of 400 was determined from an estimated target population of 89,825 women, though 390 respondents ultimately participated in the study. The theoretical framework was anchored on Malthusian Theory and the Health Belief Model to provide comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon. Findings revealed a high prevalence of unwanted pregnancy in Ankpa LGA, particularly among adolescents and young adults. The study identified key contributing factors including inadequate sexual education, lack of parental guidance, peer pressure, and limited access to reproductive health services. Cultural beliefs and social stigma were found to exacerbate the problem by encouraging concealment of pregnancies. The socio-economic consequences included educational disruption, economic hardship, social exclusion, and compromised health outcomes for both mothers and children. The study recommends implementing comprehensive age-appropriate sex education programs in schools and communities, improving access to affordable contraceptives and family planning services, and establishing outreach programs targeting rural areas. These interventions are essential for reducing the prevalence and mitigating the negative socio-economic impacts of unwanted pregnancy in Ankpa LGA.