Teenage pregnancy continues to be a significant concern in South Africa, with rates among the highest globally, according to recent research by InfoQuest, a leading South African online research company.
The issue, the company notes, affects not only teenagers themselves but also their families, communities, and the broader social and healthcare systems.
In January 2026, InfoQuest conducted a survey of 300 South Africans across all demographics to gauge attitudes and perceptions regarding teenage pregnancy.
The findings highlight widespread concern, strong opinions about responsibility, and recognition of the need for better education and support.
“Teenage pregnancy is widely stigmatised, yet there is strong support for access to contraception and reproductive health services,” the report notes. “Addressing this issue requires coordinated action between parents, schools, healthcare providers, and communities.”
The survey revealed the pervasiveness of the problem, with the majority of respondents reporting personal experience, whether themselves, their daughters, or close family and friends. Only 16% said they had no experience of a teenage pregnancy in any way.
“Nearly one in five respondents (19%) reported initiating sexual activity between the ages of 12 and 13, while the largest share (42%) began between 14 and 15. Almost a third reported initiation between 16 and 17, and a small but concerning minority indicated sexual activity before the age of 12. These findings point to the need for sexual health education and guidance well before adolescence,” the survey summary explains.
Respondents identified multiple factors contributing to teenage pregnancy. “Peer pressure emerged as the most significant driver, followed by inadequate sex education and limited parental guidance. Substance abuse, media influence, and restricted access to contraception were also cited. Taken together, these findings highlight overlapping social and structural constraints that leave many teenagers without the knowledge, resources, or support needed to make informed decisions,” the report adds.
The survey also found that teenagers rely heavily on informal sources for information about sexual health and pregnancy. “Friends and peers were cited most frequently, followed closely by social media. Teachers and schools played a more limited role, while healthcare providers, parents, and religious leaders were mentioned far less often. This pattern suggests that many teenagers may be accessing incomplete or inaccurate information, potentially increasing their exposure to risky behaviour,” the report said.
Claire Heckrath, MD of infoQuest, commented: “The findings present a nuanced picture of teenage pregnancy in South Africa: a widespread and highly stigmatised issue shaped by early sexual initiation and peer-driven sources of information. While parents are widely regarded as the most important educators, they are often underutilised in practice. At the same time, communities largely support access to contraception but do not consistently foster open and informed dialogue.”
She concluded: “Addressing teenage pregnancy requires a coordinated response that brings together parents, schools, healthcare providers, and community leaders. Only through such collaboration can South Africa reduce teenage pregnancy rates and better support young people in making informed, healthy choices.”
Saturday Star