Applying Orem’s self care model in empowering secondary school girls on contraceptive knowledge and use in Thulamela Municipality, Limpopo Province, South Africa

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to apply the Orem’s self care theory in empowering secondary school girls’ knowledge and attitudes towards contraception in Thulamela municipality of Limpopo Province, South Africa. A quantitative descriptive study design was used and respondents were selected by means of convenience sampling from a population of secondary-school girls. The sample consisted of 273 secondary-school girls doing grades 10-12. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. The findings indicate that respondents were aware of different contraceptive methods that can prevent pregnancy. However, the majority of respondents did not have knowledge of the emergency contraceptive, Intra-Uterine Device (IUD) and female condom. Pressure from male partners, fear of parental reaction to the use of contraceptives, reluctance to use contraceptives, poor contraceptive education and lack of counselling were cited as the main cause for ineffective contraceptive use and non-utilisation. Possible modalities of intervention were discussed based on Orem’s self-care model.