Every parent fears their teenage daughter falling pregnant. The shocking news is difficult for many to handle.
But being a parent means doing what you can to protect and empower your teenage child and part of that is helping her know her rights and assuring her that the law (and her parents) are on her side. This is according to statement by legal services agency Law For All.
“Of course, no parent is ready to hear these words from their teenage daughter. You might have heard about this happening ‘to other people’, but never in your wildest dreams thought an unplanned pregnancy would derail your hopes and dreams for your child and her future,” the statement read. Often the thought is, “This may have and will happen to another family.”
The following questions and responses aim to empower parents and teen pregnancy victims, help them navigate unplanned motherhood and reassure them of family’s love and support.
Did I do something wrong? What are the causes of teenage pregnancy in Mzansi?
- It’s a natural reaction to question your parenting, but don’t fall in the trap of taking on guilt about what went ‘wrong’
- The reality is many teenagers have sex, and there are several reasons why teenage girls fall pregnant
- The topic of sex is still off-limits in many households and schools around South Africa
- Open communication and education for teens on sex and reproductive health is vital, teaches them safety, use of contraceptives, consent, and how to report sexual assault
- A misconception about teen pregnancy is that it’s prevalent more in girls in rural areas because they want to receive child care grants from the government.
- How often do girls fall pregnant? What are teen pregnancy rates?
- The World Health Organisation estimates 11 percent of all pregnancies to be among girls between 15 and 19 years of age
- Ninety-five percent of them are from developing countries like South Africa, where more than 97 000 girls gave birth in 2017.
Details: Lipco Law for All 011 831 2700.
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