Antenatal, childbirth and post-natal care resources: APHRC and Partners

Globally, adolescent mothers are at increased risk for postpartum depression (PPD). In Kenya, 15% of adolescent girls become mothers before the age of 18. While social support can buffer a mother’s risk of PPD, there are gaps in knowledge as to whether—and which types—of social support are protective for adolescent mothers in Kenya. Understanding the associations between support and postpartum depression symptoms among adolescent mothers can inform mental health interventions. This report delves into some of the insights that are crucial in informing such interventions.

Previous studies have not synthesized existing literature on the lived experiences of pregnant and parenting adolescents (aged 10–19) in Africa. Such evidence synthesis is needed to inform policies, programs, and future research to improve the well-being of the millions of pregnant or parenting adolescents in the region. This study fills this gap by reviewing the literature on pregnant and parenting adolescents in Africa. It maps existing research in terms of their substantive focus, and geographical distribution. It also synthesizes these studies based on thematic focus and identified gaps for future research.

The findings from this study conducted in Burkina Faso’s Central region by Institut Supérieur des Sciences de la Population (ISSP) and the African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC) on the lived experiences of pregnant and parenting adolescents in the region. It examines how the social exclusion of adolescents from sexual and reproductive health and rights information and services increases their vulnerability to early and unintended pregnancy and its consequences. The study also identifies interventions to improve the health and wellbeing of pregnant and parenting adolescents.

This is a mixed-methods study conducted by the University of Malawi and the African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC) that examines the lived experiences, challenges, and support needs of pregnant and parenting adolescents (PPAs) aged 10-19 in Blantyre District. The study, involving surveys and interviews with PPAs, their families, teachers, policymakers, and community leaders, explores issues such as reasons for early pregnancies, reactions to pregnancy, access to healthcare (including antenatal care), mental health, impact of COVID-19, livelihood challenges, aspirations, and barriers and facilitators to school re-entry. Ultimately, the report aims to generate evidence to inform policies and interventions that support the well-being, education, and economic empowerment of PPAs in Malawi.

This study drew from APHRC’s experience of implementing lived experiences surveys among pregnant and parenting adolescents in Malawi and Burkina Faso as part of the Challenging the Politics of Social Exclusion project, the African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), in partnership with Miss Koch Kenya and the Directorate of Children’s Services, Nairobi County, conducted a mixed-methods study on the lived experiences of these pregnant and parenting adolescent girls in Korogocho, an informal settlement in Nairobi.