Religious leaders' perspectives on preventing adolescent pregnancy in Soudougui, Burkina Faso: a qualitative study

Adolescence is a critical period for sexual and reproductive health, with teenage pregnancy contributing significantly to maternal and neonatal mortality, especially in low- and middle-income countries. This study explores the role of religious leaders in addressing teenage pregnancy. Using a descriptive qualitative research design, 18 religious leaders from various faiths were interviewed in Soudougui in May 2022. Semi-structured interviews captured their perceptions, knowledge and views about preventive strategies regarding teenage pregnancy. Thematically analysed and contextualised. Findings highlight the influential role of religious leaders in shaping community norms in relation to sexual and reproductive health. They utilised their authority to provide age-appropriate, value-based sexual education emphasising chastity, parental involvement and responsible behaviour. Strategies included requiring civil marriage before a religious ceremony, delaying conjugal responsibilities post-marriage and providing support to girls experiencing early pregnancy as part of an effort to reduce community stigma. Views about contraception were divided, reflecting doctrinal differences and barriers to interfaith collaboration. Religious leaders offer significant potential for culturally sensitive public health interventions. However, optimising sexual and reproductive health outcomes for adolescents requires integrating evidence-based practices with religious teachings, fostering interfaith cooperation and building capacity to align public health goals with traditional values.