Psychosocial challenges of pregnant adolescents in the Ho Municipality

Adolescent health studies in the Volta Region have examined various subjects including family planning, unsafe abortions, teenage pregnancy, and determinants of early sexual activity among others. However, very little empirical evidence exists to date about the psychosocial challenges pregnant adolescents go through. Understanding the nature and extent of psychological challenges surrounding adolescent pregnancy will help inform policy and appropriate psychosocial interventions to improve the health of pregnant adolescents. The study aimed to examine the psychosocial challenges of pregnant adolescents and to describe the causes of teenage pregnancy in the Ho Municipality.This was an exploratory facility-based qualitative study using narrative and phenomenological approach. In-Depth Interview (IDI) technique was used to gather information from pregnant adolescents (10-19 years) accessing health care at the Volta Regional and Ho Municipal Hospitals. Purposive sampling involving maximum variation technique was used. The interviewees were included based on their acceptability, willingness to participate and provide information for this study.

Autorentext

Emmanuel Arhin est un praticien de la santé publique au sein du GHS, il est titulaire d'un MPH, d'un BSc Public Health et d'un Dip. Il est également titulaire de certificats en leadership et gestion de la santé et en gestion clinique du VIH de l'Université de Washington, aux États-Unis.