Abstract:
Abstract
This qualitative study explores strategies for accessing health information among pregnant adolescents in
Kajiado County, Kenya, with a focus on school dropouts. Teen pregnancies in Kajiado remain a major
issue, causing high dropout rates and limiting learners’ access to essential information for informed health
decision making. The objective of this study was to identify and recommend strategies that would enable
them to access relevant health information, contributing to an improvement in the health status of the
expectant mothers and their unborn babies. Utilizing the Case Study method, the study involved 14 In
depth Interviews and three Focus Group Discussions using purposeful sampling technique to select 32
expectant school-drop-out teens (ages 15-19) in Kajiado County. Ethical issues like informed consent were
considered. The data were analyzed thematically covering the challenges the teenagers face, sources, and
means they prefer for obtaining information, and their real-world experiences in the search for health
related information. The results indicate that pregnant teens’ dropouts are more vulnerable than others
confined to the formal structures of education, which, in most cases, are the major sources of health
information. In addition, other factors like socio-cultural aspects and lack of tailor-made communication
strategies further complicate the situation. To address these challenges, the study outlines: community
based health education programs, mHealth platforms, and culturally sensitive communication approaches.
This is intended to empower pregnant teenagers with sufficient knowledge and resources necessary for
making informed decisions about their health. It, therefore, concluded that facilitating access to information
on health matters among this marginalized group may greatly improve maternal and child health outcomes
in Kajiado County, and ultimately help them realize their full academic potential. This research will
enlighten policymakers, educators, and healthcare professionals interested in the support of this vulnerable
population.
