Teenagers’ Perceptions of Contraception Use and Support Requirements to Prevent Teenage Pregnancies: A South African Study

Teenage pregnancy continues to be a concern. Complications during pregnancy and childbirth are the leading causes of death among pregnant teenagers. The use of contraception and support to prevent teenage pregnancies is of utmost importance to help address this concern.

The study aimed to explore and describe perceptions of teenagers regarding the use of contraception (1) and what support is required in assisting teenagers to prevent teenage pregnancies (2) in Limpopo Province, South Africa.

A qualitative research strategy employing exploratory and descriptive approaches was used in this study. Purposive sampling of teenagers in a public secondary school with the highest pregnancy rate in a district of the Limpopo Province was used. Data were collected from 23 participants using naïve sketch booklets with 12 questions. Data were analysed using content analysis with the assistance of a co-coder.

Three categories emerged from the data, namely opinion of contraception (1), factors preventing the usage of contraception (2), and help and support (3).

Teenagers were knowledgeable about contraception methods, which included condoms, oral contraceptives and injectables, and the usage thereof. Advantages, disadvantages, and areas to access contraception were also known by the participants. However, there were different opinions with regards to contraception, factors preventing its usage, and help and support needed.