Photo courtesy of Leah Newhouse
Ms. Teresita Malingta’s research, “Understanding Pregnancy and Childbirth Experiences Among Adolescents in Baguio City,” offers an essential framework for analyzing the difficulties encountered by young mothers and the pressing necessity for support systems that are responsive to their specific needs. This study, which concentrates on the lived experiences of seven adolescent mothers in Baguio City, directly aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.
Sustainable Development Goal 5 underscores the imperative to eradicate all manifestations of discrimination and violence against women and girls, encompassing detrimental practices such as child marriage and early pregnancy. Ms. Malingta’s research illuminates the intricate realities confronting adolescent mothers, drawing attention to the societal and personal barriers they must navigate.
Utilizing a phenomenological approach and conducting in-depth interviews, Ms. Malingta prioritizes the voices and experiences of adolescent mothers. This methodological approach facilitates a deeper understanding of their challenges, coping strategies, and aspirations. The study explores support mechanisms, labor challenges, pivotal life moments, and future aspirations.
Addressing the distinctive needs and challenges experienced by adolescent mothers can advance the objectives of SDG 5 and foster a more equitable and just society for all women and girls.
