Browsing by Author "Qambata, Nolitha Albah"

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    A discriptive study on experiences of teenage mothers attending Notyatyambo Health Care Centre, Eastern Cape with regards to child care
    (University of Fort Hare, 2011) Qambata, Nolitha Albah; Mayeye, B.; Rautenbach, C.
    Introduction Teenage sexual activity is associated with pregnancy and child care problems. The aim of the study was to assess the experiences of teenage mothers with regard child care. The purpose of the study To describe the experiences of teenage mothers attending Nontyatyambo Health Care Centre regarding child care. Study method A descriptive study of forty teenage mothers aged 13-19 years, attending the family planning services at Nontyatyambo Health Care Centre situated in Buffalo City Municipality was conducted. The sample was teenage mothers with live children. This was a quantitative descriptive research design where a convenience sample of forty participants between the ages of 13-19 years was selected. The participants were in grades 8 to 12, but some had dropped out of school due to pregnancy and to take care of their children. Results The study showed that 7 4% of the participants fell pregnant in grades 9- 10 at ages lower than 16 years. Sixty percent of the participants did not use any contraceptive devices. Anaemia and depression disorder were the most commonly experienced complications during pregnancy by these participants. Sixty nine, two percent had problems of looking after their children. Sixty one, five percent did not receive any form of support from the father of the child. While 71. 8% had financial problems. Recommendations The study recommended that more emphasis should be placed on providing contraceptive services for teenagers and the adoption of a more purposeful and holistic approach. Health workers need to design programmes that will equip teenagers with the kind of education and skills they require. Health education ought to be pursued before children reach the teenage stage and before they become sexually active. Parents should also play their role in discussing pregnancy and its responsibilities with their children. Better support for teenage mothers should be offered, including encouraging them to return to school.