Navigating motherhood twice: Lived experiences of teenage mothers with repeat pregnancies in a rural Municipality, South Africa.

Abstract

Repeat adolescent pregnancy remains a significant public health concern in South Africa, particularly in rural settings. This study explored the lived experiences of young mothers with repeat pregnancies attending Ngangelizwe Community Health Centre in the King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality, Eastern Cape. Twenty in-depth interviews were conducted with mothers aged 18-24 who experienced their first pregnancy during adolescence. Findings indicate that most repeat pregnancies were unplanned and shaped by delayed pregnancy recognition, limited support, and complex family and partner dynamics. Participants described challenges related to education, childcare, stigma, and access to youth-friendly healthcare services. Despite these challenges, young mothers demonstrated resilience and employed various coping strategies to manage the emotional, social, and financial pressures they faced. Strengthening family, school, healthcare, and community support systems is essential to enhance the well-being of adolescents navigating repeat pregnancies in rural South Africa.