Causes of teenage pregnancy

In some societies, early marriage and traditional gender roles are important factors in the rate of teenage pregnancy. For example, in some sub-Saharan African countries, early pregnancy is often seen as a blessing because it is proof of the young woman's fertility.In the Indian subcontinent, early marriage and pregnancy is more common in traditional rural communities compared to the rate in cities.

In societies where adolescent marriage is uncommon, young age at first intercourse and lack of contraceptive use may be factors in teen pregnancy. Most teenage pregnancies in the developed world appear to be unplanned.