Teenage Pregnancy Research Report - 3p Consulting

PregnancyBecomingpregnantSupportneeds duringpregnancyKey findingsThe majority of young womenparticipants described theirpregnancies as unplanned andreported being on the pill at the timeof conception.Instability of accommodation was themost pressing issue for the youngwomen once they became pregnant.Young women are more likely toattend appropriate care and supportappointments if they have theconsistent support of a trusted adult(parent/friend or worker).Most young women reported thatthey were uncomfortable andembarrassed to attend antenatalappointments and admitted enteringlabour with limited knowledge ofwhat to expect.Implications/Opportunities Policy area/Local actionTeenage pregnancy rateswill not reduce while thereare significant knowledgegaps about using thecontraception pill.Young women are lesslikely to access appropriatecare and support if theiraccommodation is unstable.The need for a nurturing andunderstanding significantadult as a consistentpresence is critical.Less likely to pick up anyneeds or early issues. Beingless informed on key areas ofcare and nutrition can impacton overall health. Going intolabour has implications onthe experience and senseof control over what ishappening.Explore innovativeapproaches to educating/informing young peopleabout the pill.A shared, local coordinatedand prioritised approachto ensuring stableaccommodation isestablished across serviceproviders.Trial a lead worker modelat point of pregnancy fora pre-determined periodto undertake the careco-ordination and act as asupport person, advocateand navigator of the systemwith the young person.Considering trialing acommunity midwiferyprogram to provide supportthrough pregnancy with atransition into cu@home.10