TEENAGE PREGNANCY: A qualitative study performed in Chamanculo General Hospital, Maputo

Abstract

To understand the experiences and perceptions of teenage pregnancy, particularly those related to the decision to carry the pregnancy to term, and the socio-economic and health experienced by teenagers throughout pregnancy. It is part of a research study of the experiences and perceptions of adolescents about pregnancy, using the qualitative method based on a phenomenological approach. Participated in 25 adolescent mothers aged ≤ 19 years who had a full term pregnancy. These mothers were recruited during consultations weight of children in Chamanculo General Hospital and who agreed to participate voluntarily in the study, after the invitation. Theoretical saturation was taken into account in the recruitment of adolescents. The results revealed that the experiences and perceptions of teenage pregnancy vary from mother to mother, and that during pregnancy one experiences the fear, uncertainty, dropout, and even joy in the hope that the child can bring you happiness. But happiness depends on the relationship that the mother has between her and the author of the pregnancy with her and this family's relationship with his teenage relatives. The circumstances that lead to pregnancy are multiple depending on the teenager to teenager. Pregnancy leads to withdrawal from school girl, increases their survival situation characterized by lack of food and other basic necessities, presents risk of disease and death beyond health difficulties that may be experienced by the child. The results of this study show that the phenomenon of teenage pregnancy cannot be isolated from its context, especially the family of the teen networks of sociability and socio-economic aspects. The teenage pregnancy creates complex situations for adolescents, which may have negative effects on your future. The pregnancy experience depends on the teenager to teenager.