Perception and experience of relatives of pregnant teenagers: a qualitative study in the North and Northeast departments of Haiti

Abstract

Background: Teenage pregnancy remains a global problem because of its consequences for the teenager, her child, her family, and society. In Haiti, this type of pregnancy burdens the family economy. In addition, the adolescent fertility rate is still high, despite efforts to reduce it. Objective: This article aims to analyze the perception and experiential experience of relatives of pregnant adolescents in Haiti. Methods: A qualitative study design based on Dewey's social survey was conducted. Data were collected from 17 relatives (partners, parents, guardians, and others) of pregnant adolescents in Haiti's North and Northeast departments. These data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Résultats: Selon les résultats, la grossesse chez les adolescentes est considérée comme un désastre ou un problème social en Haïti. Elle entraîne de nombreuses difficultés psychosociales et économiques pour les proches, qui sont la seule source de soutien économique et social pour les adolescentes enceintes. Conclusion: Compte tenu de la vulnérabilité des proches, les politiques et les interventions visant à réduire les conséquences négatives de la grossesse chez les adolescentes devraient tenir compte de ce groupe de personnes.