A phenomenological study of the lived experiences of teenage mothers in coping with complications of pregnancy in Khaddamari Ward, Jere Local Government Area, Borno State

Abstract

Objectives: Teenage pregnancy is a world-wide phenomenon and a public health issue so our aim was to identify the contributing factors, and to study perception, complications, effects, challenges and coping mechanisms. Method: An explorative qualitative research design, snowball sampling, was used. Ten respondents were interviewed using an interview guide in Khaddamari Ward, Jere L.G.A. of Borno State. Results: The major contributing factor to teenage pregnancy is ignorance and lack of proper sex education both at home and school. Few responses listed traditional roles, cultural expectations, using drugs and alcohol, age discrepancy in relationships, socio-economic factors, sexual coercion and abuse. Most of them perceived fear, guilt and stigmatization and only a few of them said they were excited, proud and accepted. Anemia, preterm labour, cephalo-pelvic disproportion, obstructed labour and vesico-vaginal fistula were common complications. Almost all of them dropped out of school. Conclusion: Based on these findings of the study, a collaborative effort by all stakeholders involved should be employed in combating the complications of teenage pregnancy.