Challenges faced by female teenagers in accessing contraceptives at Bylodrift Clinic, Malatane Village, Capricorn District of Limpopo Province

Abstract

The study sought to provide deeper understanding on access to contraceptives by female teenagers. The aim of this study was to explore the challenges faced by female teenagers in accessing contraceptives at Byldrift Clinic, Malatane Village, Capricorn District of Limpopo Province. Qualitative research method was applied in the study. The study utilised case study research design. Purposive sampling was used to select participants. Face to face interviews were conducted with ten (10) female teenagers. The age of participants ranges from 15 years to 19 years. Thematic Analysis was used to analyse data. The negative attitude of healthcare providers was cited as a challenge for teenagers accessing contraceptives, however other participants cited positive attitude of healthcare providers. The experience of side effects, parents and partners were cited as major challenges experienced while using contraceptives. The problem of inaccessibility remains a challenge in public health facilities; participants reported long waiting times, long distance to get to the clinic, shortage of staff, lack of confidentiality and lack of proper infrastructure. Most participants indicated that they discuss contraception with their peers, therefore peer influence remains an influential factor in accessing contraceptives. The study recommended that healthcare providers should give the effectiveness rate of the contraceptive method and ways to manage side effects, health facilities need to be more user friendly and that operating hours should be convenient to teenagers who are still schooling. This is evident that young women face challenges in accessing contraceptives. Keywords: Access, challenge, contraceptives, teenagers