Saisuda Vongjinda. Life experiences of first time pregnant teenagers . Master's Degree(Maternal and Newborn Nursing). Mahidol University. : Mahidol University, 2004.
Abstract:
This study, using qualitative research methodology, aims to understand the first pregnancy experience of female adolescents. Data were collected though in-depth interview and observation techniques. Twenty adolescents were purposively selected as key-informants according to the following inclusion criteria: aged less than 20 years old; gestational age 28 weeks or more; and use antenatal care or delivery service at Kamphaensaen Hospital.
The study showed that most female teenagers studied were from low socioeconomic and problem families. Three-fourths of the girls’ first sex was premarital due to many factors including ignorance, curiosity, and socio-cultural and economic ones. Three-fourths of the girls had unexpected pregnancies and both negatively and positively responded to it. Half of those who had negative reactions, attempted abortion. Factors relating to the acceptance or denial of pregnancy were the meanings given to the pregnancy, reaction of close relatives, degree of suffering caused by morning sickness, failure of abortion, and the extent of the affection felt when experiencing fetus movement. Most of the girls adjusted physically, psychologically and socio-economically to pregnancy. The improved relationships with others, especially partners and parents, as well as advice, and support received made the pregnant teens positive about their pregnancy. Self-care practices during pregnancy of the female teens involved many behavioral changes including diet alterations, avoidance of self-medication, exercise, general hygiene, body cleaning, safety care and regular visits to the antenatal care clinic. Most of the teens, except those who did not want the baby or rejected the pregnant, prepared themselves by acquiring knowledge and experiences from different sources. One of the recommendations of this study is that nurses should be well aware of the specificity of teenage clients, provide holistic care, promote good relationships between the teenage mother and the baby and involve other people in taking care of the pregnant teens.