Contraceptive use among young mothers with repeat births: Evidence from a qualitative study in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Abstract

Teenage pregnancy and rapid repeat pregnancies are declining globally, but they continue to be a significant health issue. Many studies have explored contraceptive use by adolescents, but too date there is a lack of literature on the contraceptive use dynamics of young women in repeat births. This study was conducted in Umlazi, a township located in the province of KwaZulu-Natal. A total of 50 interviews with young mothers aged 18-24 years were conducted. The results revealed that contraceptive use among young mothers remains a challenge, resulting in a significant lack of contraceptive use. This study concludes that much more needs to be done to help young women protect themselves from unwanted and unplanned repeat pregnancies, which includes raising contraception awareness as well as educating young women about their own sexual reproductive health.