Perceptions of adolescent mothers towards adolescent repeat childbirth in Soroti district, Teso sub-region, Uganda: A phenomenological study

Abstract

The percentage of adolescent mothers aged 15 to 19 years with a repeat childbirth in Uganda (26.1%) is higher than the global estimate (18.5%). Soroti district tops Teso (a region with highest adolescent childbearing rate nationally) in adolescent childbearing. Adolescent repeat childbearing (ARC) is associated with poor health outcomes, increased risk of stillbirth, maternal and child mortality, thus a public health concern. The explanations to the high prevalence of repeat childbirth in Soroti district remain unknown. We conducted a phenomenological study where theoretical saturation was achieved with 3 focus group discussions; each comprised of 8 respondents. The questions posed focused on modified socio-ecological model regarding the factors associated with repeat childbirth. These included; perceived individual factors of repeat childbirth, factors related to the sexual partner of the adolescent mother, adolescent mother’s family related factors and factors related to the peers and community of the adolescent mothers. Transcripts were organized and analyzed by QSR Nvivo following deductive approach. Results: Adolescent marriage was viewed as a privilege, family planning methods were viewed as non-functional, man’s demand for sex was unchallengeable and non-supportive families including mistreatment of the participants by their families were perceived as risk factors for ARC. This therefore suggests that in order to prevent repeat adolescent childbearing in Soroti district, and contribute towards the achievement of the SDG numbered three (ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages) there is need to awaken and strengthen the implementation of the anti-teen marriage programs and policies; strengthen sexual/reproductive education including family planning programs, and addressing identified myths regarding ARC.