Family planning from the pubescent adolescent’s point of view

Abstract

This study employs a qualitative approach, with the objective of portraying the knowledge of the pubescent adolescents about family planning, and of discussing their perceptions of the issue. The subjects for this study were fourteen adolescents. The procedure used for the data production was the focal group technique, which was carried out in two meetings. The results exposed by the adolescents were the following: superficial information on what is family planning, even though they employ the contraceptive methods, which they have been introduced to by nurses, doctors, community health agents – and health institutions. The adolescents in general did not plan their present pregnancy, although they considered family planning important, and they wanted to have other children. We found that the knowledge of the interviewed adolescents was superficial and was restricted to the contraceptive methods, and that priority areas of the Program for Adolescent Health (PROSAD), referring to sexuality and reproductive health, have to be carried into effect and also implemented in family planning services.