BACKGROUND
TikTok is regarded as one of the major social media platforms for sharing health-related information, including teaching TikTok users about pregnancy prevention strategies. Adolescent learners are also using this social media to learn about various types of contraceptives that can be used to prevent pregnancy due to a lack of information on the subject from parents, teachers, and clinic staff, as well as a fear of being judged when discussing such sensitive health topics. However, pregnancy prevention material shared on TikTok can be either accurate or misleading.
OBJECTIVE
The study sought to explore and describe adolescent learners' perspectives on the influence of TikTok in pregnancy prevention in Vhembe District
METHODS
This study was conducted using a cooperative inquiry qualitative research design. This study stems from the study umbrella study, which aimed to develop strategies for the prevention of adolescent learner pregnancy. Data was collected using the Lekgotla data discussion method. This study's data was analyzed using NVIVO version 14 following the six Tesch thematic phases.
RESULTS
Four themes emerged from the data analysis: home-based concoctions recipes used for pregnancy prevention methods, other home-based recipes used for pregnancy prevention methods, home-based pregnancy test recipes, and different types of modern contraceptives used for pregnancy prevention.
CONCLUSIONS
Adolescent TikTok users learn pregnancy prevention methods that are myth-based and misleading. Regulating content on TikTok is crucial to avoid harm to teenagers using home remedies for pregnancy prevention.