Personal factors influencing unplanned teenage pregnancy among high school learners at Collins Chabane Local Municipality, Limpopo Province

Abstract

Teenage pregnancy is a significant psychosocial issue in both developed and developing countries, including South Africa, leading to poor academic performance and school dropout rates. The study aimed to determine personal factors that influence unplanned teenage pregnancy among high school learners in Collins Chabane Local Municipality in Limpopo Province. A quantitative approach was employed in the study. The researcher used a cross-sectional descriptive design. A simple random sampling technique was followed to select 340 female learners, and only one school was recruited to participate in the study. The respondents completed the self-administered questionnaires. Data analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package of Social Science version 25.0. Face validity and reliability were ensured. Ethical considerations such as anonymity, confidentiality, and voluntary participation were ensured. The study revealed that 57.7% of the respondents disagreed that lack of self-confidence about sexual activities could lead to unplanned pregnancies, and 59.7% did not fear losing partners when asked about the use of contraceptives or the non-use of contraceptives. The promotion of contraceptives among youth is crucial for reducing unplanned pregnancies. Education about contraception use, abstinence, and open communication can help adolescents to make informed decisions about their health.