EXPLORING THE EXPERIENCES OF TEENAGE MOTHERS WITH REPEAT PREGNANCIES IN ABLEKUMA SUB-METROPOLIS, ACCRA

ABSTRACT Repeat pregnancies among teenage girls is a social problem confronting many countries, including Ghana. This study sought to: (a) find out factors contributing to repeat pregnancies among teenage mothers, (b) identify challenges faced by teenage mothers with repeat pregnancies, (c) explore the knowledge of teenage mothers with repeat pregnancies on contraceptives, and (d) ascertain the social support systems available to teenage mothers with repeat pregnancies in Ablekuma sub-Metropolis. Utilizing a qualitative research design, convenience and snowball sampling methods were used to recruit 41 participants for the study. The sample consisted of 33 teenage mothers with repeat pregnancies and eight health workers from the Mamprobi Polyclinic. In-depth interviews and focus group discussions were utilized to gather data for the study. The data were analyzed thematically, and it was found that factors contributing to repeat pregnancies were: low level of education, truancy, early marriage, poverty, peer pressure, and sexual coercion. Furthermore, teenage mothers included in this study faced educational, financial, health challenges and psychological issues. Besides, it was found that some of the teenage mothers were stigmatized in their communities. Also, health facilities, families, friends, and schools played crucial roles in disseminating information on family planning. Additionally, although teenage mothers obtained support from their spouses, in-laws, families, neighbors, and health workers, they faced barriers, such as family members rationalizing their problems, being accused of infidelity, ignorance of formal support services, personal attitudes, and bad attitudes of some health professionals. The study concludes that teenage mothers are at risk of repeat pregnancies and therefore recommends that stakeholders, such as social workers, Planned Parenthood Ghana, and the Ministry of Health, promote education on teenage pregnancy, family planning, and available support services.