Factors contributing to the high rate of teenage pregnancy at Makhado Local Area Vhembe District of Limpopo Province in South Africa

Abstract

This study sought to explore and describe the factors contributing to high rate of teenage pregnancy among teenagers residing at Makhado Local area, Vhembe district, South Africa. A quantitative descriptive research approach was used. Population consisted of all pregnant teenagers and teenage mothers attending antenatal and postnatal clinic within six weeks after delivery during June to October 2012 at healthcare facilities in Vhembe district, South Africa. Simple random sampling technique was used to select the clinics in which the study focused. Convenience sampling was used to include seventy pregnant teenagers and teenage mothers who satisfied the inclusion criteria.

Data were collected through structured self-administered questionnaires. Descriptive statistical data analysis was used. Ethical considerations were ensured. Findings revealed that teenagers were falling pregnant at an early age (47%) of the respondents were between the ages of 18-19 years. Findings further reveled that as many as (41%) of the respondents never use contraceptives. Pregnancy prevention strategies were recommended based on the results. The strategies focused on reproductive health services, male involvement and adult-

teenager communication programmes as well as parents' involvement in sex education of their girl children.