The Study of the Effects of Pregnancy among Adolescents in Metro Manila

Abstract

Adolescent pregnancy in the Philippines today is continuously increasing in number, with those who fall victims to this phenomenon getting younger and younger. Nowadays, as early as thirteen years of age, adolescents are found to be risking their lives and their babies’ lives because of unintended pregnancy. Also, the stigma attached to early pregnancy causes emotional trauma, adversely affecting adolescents’ view of themselves and their future. Hence, knowing the dynamics of teen pregnancy will help reduce its occurrence by providing the necessary precautions and interventions. To explore on this issue, a survey was conducted among adolescents in Metro Manila. The respondents were categorized into two groups: young women who continued their pregnancy and gave birth, and young women who intentionally terminated their pregnancies at an earlier phase. The respondents were chosen from areas identified to have high prevalence of adolescent pregnancy (Barangay Fugoso and Baseco Compound, Tondo Manila, Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital, Sta. Cruz, Manila, Tatalon, Quezon City) through the use of non-probability sampling. An instrument was developed and pretested which measured variables such as socio-demographics, family-related variables, experiences of pregnancy, as well as current attitudes and measures of self-concept of respondents in relation to early pregnancy. Chi square test, t-test and analysis of variance were used in testing significant differences between and among groups, respectively. Case studies were also presented to summarize the qualitative data. The results revealed that out of 271 female respondents, 236 (87.1%) continued with their pregnancy and 35 (12.9%) opted for premature termination of their pregnancy. Young women who prematurely terminated their pregnancies showed more negative attitudes toward their pregnancy experience although no significant differences were found between the self-concept of the two groups. Qualitative findings showed that teenage mothers felt freed from any feelings of guilt and remorse as many of them have supportive families to help them take care of their child. On the other hand, those who had prematurely terminated pregnancies felt relieved that their families were not able to know about their pregnancy and that they had more time and opportunity to focus on their studies and career. Statistically, the quality of relationship with mother, having intact family, experience of psychological abuse, type of home environment, and influences of mother and partner proved to be significant factors affecting the adolescents' decision to end or not to end their pregnancy. In conclusion, this study proved that several factors can lead adolescents to engage in sexual relations and experience early pregnancy. In particular, determinants within the family had a significant impact on children’s sexual decisions and experiences. Hence, it is important for parents to create a healthy communication between them and their children, and create a wholesome family environment for them. Other policy and programmatic recommendations were also suggested in this study.