Exploring the lived experiences of expectant teenagers in their health information seeking behaviors in Kajiado County,

Abstract

Teenage pregnancy is a public health challenge; expectant teens need easy access to reliable health information to safeguard their health and that of the unborn child. Limited research on expectant teenagers' health information-seeking behaviors hinders tailored interventions and informed decisions. The purpose of this study was to explore distinct viewpoints, challenges, and tactics for obtaining and using health information during pregnancy by expectant teenagers in Kajiado County, Kenya. The research questions were; What are the main sources of health information for expectant teenagers in Kajiado County? How do social, cultural, and economic factors influence health information seeking behaviors of expectant teenagers in Kajiado County? What are the challenges of sensemaking in expectant teenagers accessing health information in Kajiado County? What strategies and interventions could be employed to improve access to health information for expectant teenagers in Kajiado County? The study utilized Uses and Gratifications Theory; to explain expectant teens' search for health information, Social Cognitive Theory; to illuminate socioeconomic influences and Health Belief Model; to highlight cognitive factors. The study adopted a relativist-interpretivist philosophical paradigm and a qualitative approach. The case study design was suitable for the study to capture personal experiences and external factors in health information seeking, providing practical insights to inform policies, programs, and interventions for better health information accessibility. A total of 32 expectant teenagers, aged between15-19, sampled purposively from villages, towns and medical institutions participated in the study. Of these, 14 were utilized for semi- structured interviews, while, 18 were in three focus groups of six each for triangulation. Thematic analysis was applied to structure and interpret collected data. The findings revealed that expectant teens commonly sought information from family, friends, healthcare professionals, and the internet but faced challenges such as sociocultural norms, economic constraints, and systemic barriers. These intersecting issues, including poverty, gender inequality, and underdeveloped healthcare systems, complicated their ability to access reliable health information. Furthermore, they struggled with sensemaking, facing difficulties in interpreting medical jargon, sorting through misinformation, and reconciling cultural beliefs with empirical data. Therefore, these findings support the conclusion that although expectant teenagers utilize both informal and formal sources for their informational needs, there are intricacies such as stigma, health literacy, trust and accessibility at play. Addressing stigma, misinformation, poverty, and digital divides through culturally-sensitive and youth- friendly interventions can empower informed decision-making and improve outcomes. The study recommends intervention strategies for adolescent decision-making, including trusted leaders, healthcare professionals, digital literacy, and peer education, fostering critical thinking and trust in reliable sources.