Child marriage is defined as the marriage of a girl or boy before the age of 18. It encompasses both legal weddings and informal partnerships in which minors under the age of 18 live with a partner as if they were married. Almost one in every five females (17%) marries before the age of 15. The average age at first marriage is 19 for women and 21 for men. The practice of child marriage has negative effects on girls' health, education, and employment opportunities. Married girls are likely to be pregnant by the time they reach 20, putting their lives and those of their children at risk. They are also more likely to die during childbirth than older women, with nearly all maternal deaths occurring within an hour of pregnancy detection. Child brides are also less likely to be educated beyond the minimum school requirements, reducing their ability to find employment and escape poverty. Some child marriages can be prevented by improving access to education for girls, especially in remote areas where there is no school available. Some countries have passed laws prohibiting child marriage, but many others do not. In addition, some religions prohibit marrying people below a certain age. However, this factor is difficult to determine for individuals since religious leaders often change and some priests may encourage child marriage. Child marriage can also be avoided by increasing awareness about the risks of early marriage. Parents and teachers should discuss sexuality with children from an early age.