Embarazo adolescente Entre inocencia y madurez forzada: Estudio comparativo en ECUADOR Y MÉXICO

Adolescent pregnancy is a social and public health phenomenon that goes beyond biology, being influenced by a variety of psychosocial factors that significantly impact the lives of young women and their environments. This social problem is present worldwide, with high percentages in Latin America and developing countries. Statistics show the acceleration in recent decades of births to adolescents at early ages, a situation that has forced the state to work rapidly on campaigns, strategies, and social policies aimed at reducing the adolescent pregnancy rate. The causes of pregnancy are diverse and include a lack of sexual education, limited access to contraceptives, social pressures, cultural influences, low self-esteem, and in some cases, ignorance about how to prevent pregnancy. This problem generates an impact on health, the social sphere, and education. According to the National Institute of Statistics and Censuses (INEC, 2023), the birth rate indicates that for every '1,000 girls aged 10 to 14 in 2022, there are 2.3 live births (...) 38,087 live births to mothers aged 15 to 19, corresponding to a rate of 47.3 live births per 1,000 women.' Ecuador is one of the countries in Latin America with the highest number of adolescent pregnancies. This study has allowed for a more in-depth understanding of early pregnancy statistics and the sociodemographic and psychosocial factors that influence this issue.

It is important to implement public policies to reduce adolescent pregnancy in terms of sexual and reproductive rights. This poses significant challenges in Mexico and Ecuador, where this issue has been a priority and is intertwined with cultural, economic, and gender dynamics, creating a multifaceted scenario that requires an integrated approach for its understanding and resolution.

In Mexico, adolescent pregnancy is a major concern due to its high incidence and the complex circumstances surrounding it. Despite efforts by the government and civil organizations to address this issue, adolescent pregnancy rates remain high, underscoring the need for comprehensive and effective prevention and care strategies.

On the other hand, in Ecuador, adolescent pregnancy also represents a significant challenge, with worrying figures showing the vulnerability of adolescents to this situation. Factors such as the lack of access to comprehensive sexual education, poverty, gender discrimination, and limited economic opportunities contribute to perpetuating this problem, affecting the well-being of both adolescent mothers and their children.

In this context, it is imperative to analyze the conceptualizations, theories, causes, effects, and possible prevention and care strategies for adolescent pregnancy in Mexico and Ecuador. This analysis will not only allow for a better understanding of the complexity of the situation but also identify concrete actions to promote the comprehensive development of adolescents and ensure their right to a healthy and fulfilling life.

In both countries, social and cultural norms play a crucial role in shaping the experience of adolescent pregnancy. In many communities, stigmas and taboos surrounding sexuality and reproduction persist, making it difficult to access information and sexual and reproductive health services. The lack of comprehensive sexual education and the silence around the topic contribute to misinformation and risky behaviors among adolescents.

The economic situation of families also influences the prevalence of adolescent pregnancy. In poverty-stricken environments, young women may face limited educational and job opportunities, increasing the likelihood of unwanted pregnancies. In many cases, pregnancy is seen as an alternative to the lack of future prospects, reflecting the intersection between economic and reproductive factors.

Gender inequalities are a fundamental factor contributing to adolescent pregnancy in Mexico and Ecuador. Adolescent girls, especially those from marginalized groups, face greater barriers to accessing education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. The lack of autonomy and decision-making power over their own bodies leaves them vulnerable to coercive or abusive relationships, increasing the risk of unplanned pregnancies.

Social and family pressure can significantly influence adolescents' reproductive decisions. In many cases, family and community expectations regarding the role of women as mothers can implicitly pressure them to start motherhood at a young age. Additionally, the lack of open communication within families makes it difficult for adolescents to seek support and guidance on sexual and reproductive health.

Adolescent pregnancy presents a series of psychosocial challenges for young women, who face significant emotional, social, and cognitive changes during this developmental stage. The lack of emotional support and discrimination can increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems both during pregnancy and in the postpartum period.

The primary goal of this book is to analyze adolescence and pregnancy in the Ecuadorian and Mexican contexts to better understand the complex situation of this social phenomenon and to identify concrete actions that lead to the full development of adolescents.