Exploring the Challenges Facing Pregnant Teenagers in the Sustainable Development Goals Era: Qualitative study in Gauteng Province South Africa

Abstract

<title>Abstract</title> Background Adolescent pregnancy and childbirth among women under 20 continue to be a major global public health concern. Early pregnancy and childbearing have consequences. The study aimed to explore the challenges facing pregnant teenagers during the Sustainable development Goals Era. Methods A qualitative phenomenological, exploratory and descriptive design underpinned this study to explore the challenges facing pregnant teenagers. A non-probability and purposive sampling technique was used to select pregnant teenagers, between the ages of 10–19 during antenatal care (ANC) visits in selected clinics. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews, questions were in English, Afrikaans and Isizulu language until data saturation was reached at participant number 16. Tesch’s method of data analysis was used to analyse the data. Results In this study, five themes and sub-themes were derived during data analysis in connection with the themes. This includes Physical experiences of pregnant teenagers, psychological experiences of pregnant teenagers, social experiences of pregnant teenagers, coping experiences of pregnant teenagers and recommendations to improve the well-being of pregnant teenagers. Conclusion The study revealed that even during the implementation of Sustainable Goals Era, there are hidden challenges experienced by pregnant teenagers, they are suffering in silence. The identified the need for support from school or fellow students, teachers, parents, family and community at large, this will enhance the best pregnancy outcomes aligning to the attainment of Sustainable development goals. Hence there is a need for financial, social and psychological support for a better outcome of pregnancy.