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Abstract
Purpose: Teenage pregnancy is a world-wide problem and a subject of concern in both industrialised and developing countries. It is in fact a growing concern that is very commonly reported in the media. A few studies have considered teenager opinions and have looked at their point of view. This study aims to look at teenagers attitudes to health care services so as to develop better services and thus a better outcome for this group. Methods: This is a case study which looked at a specific population, pregnant teenagers and young mothers attending Ashlyns School in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Different approaches for gathering information were used in this study. A descriptive approach, gaining general information, through observation and documentary evidence was used. A quantitative phase using a self-administered questionnaire was undertaken, and a qualitative phase using focus-group discussions with the young mothers, and semi-structured and unstructured interviews with the key-informants was also undertaken. Participant observation was also an important component of the data collection. These different approaches have enabled us to triangulate our findings. Results: Most girls studying in Ashlyns come from a poor background, and seem to repeat a family pattern of early pregnancy. Most pregnant teenagers in the study, seem to seek consistent antenatal care. Also, the majority found antenatal care very important, but they did not like the attitude of the health care providers. They described them as judgmental, patronising, and felt that they treated young mothers differently because of their age. 50% of adolescents would prefer "young mother" clinics, and 25% would like normal clinics with timetables reserved for teenagers. In all, 75% would like something different. The main reason for in delayed antenatal care comes from the late discovery of the pregnancy. 95% of schoolgirls would like to have "young mother" discussion groups. Young mothers, mainly primipara, are keen to understand more about their pregnancy and would like more information. All the girls at Ashlyns School were successful in gaining their GCSE qualifications. Conclusion: The results seem to follow the trends of other studies reported in the literature. There are important differences, however, in the degree to which subjects in this study attended antenatal care and in subjects educational achievements. These positive findings may be the result of the greater degree of support that Ashlyns School provides. Teenage mothers to be represent an especially vulnerable group at risk of marginalisation by an early pregnancy. Specific models incorporating adapted health care and education can pull this group in from the fringe of society. These young women require self-esteem and confidence to continue productive lives and to be ensure that they are good healthy mothers.
