Young Women who Have Experienced Unwanted Pregnancy: A Multiple Case Study

Abstract

Qualitative approaches were used to understand the experience of pregnancy in a group of young Xhosa women (N =10, M age = 19.70, SD = 3.20). Data is provided on their retrospective accounts of factors which contributed towards unwanted pregnancy. Thematic content analysis revealed a range of influences on pregnancy including: background, parenting and restrictions; stigma towards contraception; carelessness and ignorance; power and pressure from the partner; and shifting responsibility.

Keywords:

• young unmarried women
• rural economically underdeveloped area
• factors contributing towards unwanted pregnancy experiences
• multiple case study