POST-TRAUMATIC OUTCOMES OF EARLY PREGNANCIES AMONG TEENAGERS IN NZAMBANI SUB-COUNTY, KITUI, KENYA

Abstract

ABSTRACT Teenage pregnancy has negative effects on mother and perinatal health. Its prevalence and causes are unknown. This research project aimed at investigating the post-traumatic impact of early pregnancies on teenagers in Kitui's Nzambani Sub-County. The research was guided by the following objectives: to identify the underlying factors that contribute to early pregnancies; to assess the psychosocial effects of early pregnancies among teenagers; to determine ways of promoting resilience among teenage pregnant girls; and to identify programs that can help in preventing teenage pregnancies in Nzambani Sub- County. The research was grounded on two theories: Reason Action theory and Social Cognitive theory. The study used mixed method research approach. The target population consisted of 516 adolescents. The teenage girls were sampled using a simple random sampling method. Using an automatic inclusion technique, 10 parents/guardians of adolescent girls were chosen as key informants. The researcher used the Yamane (1967) formula to determine the sample size of 225 respondents. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected using standardized questionnaires and interview guides. Data were analyzed with thematic analysis and inferential statistics. The findings indicated that 56.3% of the respondents attributed the early pregnancy to lack of information on matter of sexual education and reproductive health and rights. Early pregnancy was connected to early childbearing as expressed by 54% of the participants. The fact that teenage girls were denied the right to make decisions about their sexual and reproductive health and wellbeing was identified among the causes (54%). The results of the Post-Traumatic Growth scale showed that the most significant change occurred in personal strength (Mean = 3.1580), in appreciation of life (Mean = 2.9962), in new possibilities (Mean= 2.9632), spiritual growth (Mean= 2.9282), and improved relationship (Mean= 2.8826). This implies that the respondents gained some positive growth after experiencing the traumatic event. The study indicated that the social support (50%) as well as the preventive programs for teenage pregnancy played a great role in preventing early pregnancy. The study recommended an increase in parental care, the strengthening of the support systems providing sexual education to Teenagers, as well as improving Teenage’ access to services providing reproductive health.