Pregnant teenagers’ group: contributions to prenatal care

ABSTRACT

Objective  To describe changes in nurses’ care following the implementation of a group of pregnant teenagers in prenatal care based on the expectations and experiences of pregnant teenagers.

Method  Qualitative and descriptive study conducted from February to November 2013 at a Primary Care Unit in Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil, through focus groups with 16 adolescents from the group of pregnant women in the second or third trimester of pregnancy. The analysis identified central ideas and units of meanings that formed the categories.

Results  The strategy of a group of pregnant teenagers, which provides a space for coexistence and the establishment of ties encourages these individuals to talk about their needs, re-signifying their ties. Educational strategies to promote self-care of pregnant teenagers and care for their babies involve the sharing of experiences, doubts and beliefs.

Conclusion  Considerations and suggestions of the adolescents contributed to guide nurses’ practice and provide a strategic space of care and support for pregnant adolescents in primary care.

Pregnancy in adolescence; Prenatal care; Primary care nursing; Health education