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Students in entry-level vocational training, young people without a basic qualification (early school leavers), and those not in education, employment, or training are more likely to experience unintended pregnancies. This is one of the findings from Understanding Vulnerability, a study by Rutgers on the prevalence and background factors of unintended pregnancies within these groups.
Contributing factors
Several factors play a role in unintended pregnancies. Among early school leavers and those not in education, employment, or training, an unstable home environment frequently emerges as a key factor. This may involve parental addiction and/or mental health issues, poverty, family conflicts and violence, sexual abuse, frequent changes in living situations, step-parents, and contact with youth care services. Additionally, unequal and harmful relationships with ex-partners are often mentioned in conversations. A comprehensive approach to preventing unintended pregnancies—one that also addresses domestic violence, relationship abuse, and school dropouts—is therefore crucial.
Lack of knowledge
Nearly all young people who have experienced an unintended pregnancy cite a lack of knowledge and information about contraception and reproduction. As a result, they often misjudge the risk of pregnancy and encounter difficulties in using contraception effectively. It is therefore essential to better reach these young people with information on pregnancy and contraception, both in education (secondary schools and vocational training) and in healthcare settings, such as youth care services and general practitioners.
Desire for parenthood
Although these young people became pregnant at a time when other aspects of their lives were not going well, nearly all respondents state that the pregnancy brought a positive change in their lives. In some cases, their relationship with their parents improved, harmful relationships ended, and they resumed their education. Many respondents feel that the experience made them “grow up” and helped them make better life choices.
Support from parents, friends, and professionals—such as youth care workers or staff in mother-and-child homes—was particularly helpful. However, they often lacked practical assistance, especially with housing. After an unintended pregnancy, support in making a positive new start is crucial, particularly in accessing education, employment, and stable housing.
Read the full report here (Dutch).