A phenomenological investigation of experiences of pregnancy by unmarried adolescents in Maseru

Abstract

The transition to motherhood is accompanied by a number of social and psychological consequences that place pregnant adolescents at risk in terms of later life adjustment. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore and describe the experiences of pregnant unmarried adolescents in the Maseru district and, if necessary, to develop guidelines for an educational and counselling program for them. Pregnant unmarried adolescents, aged 13 to 19 years, from 10 randomly selected clinics in Maseru, were allowed to give detailed descriptions of their experiences with their first pregnancy. The meanings that those experiences had for them were also explored. Sixteen individual phenomenological and two focus group interviews were conducted. Tesch's (1990) method of analysis was used to analyse the data.Results: The respondents reported to have met the confirmation of their pregnancy with a mixture of disbelief, confusion and shame. Data were grouped into four main categories namely emotions, relationships, physical problems and religion. Positive and negative experiences were described. All respondents who were still in school had to drop out. Recommendations included: every pregnant adolescent who comes to the clinic or outpatient department should receive or be referred for counselling. Prenatal education should provide anticipatory guidance related to maternal role issues. This abstract was translated into English by the publisher or author.