Abstract

MABETHA, Khuthala et al. Young women's social support networks during pregnancy in Soweto, South Africa. Afr. j. prim. health care fam. med. (Online) [online]. 2024, vol.16, n.1, pp.1-11. ISSN 2071-2936.  http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/phcfm.v16i1.4146.

BACKGROUND: Although studies from high-income countries have examined social support during pregnancy, it remains unclear what type of support is received by expectant mothers from low- and middle-income country settings AIM: To explore young women's social support networks during pregnancy in Soweto, South Africa SETTING: This study was undertaken in an academic hospital based in the Southwestern Townships (Soweto), Johannesburg, in Gauteng province, South Africa METHODS: An exploratory descriptive qualitative approach was employed. Eighteen (18) young pregnant women were recruited using a purposive sampling approach. In-depth interviews were conducted, and data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis RESULTS: Analysis of the data resulted in the development of two superordinate themes namely; (1) relationships during pregnancy and (2) network involvement. Involvement of the various social networks contributed greatly to the young women having a greater sense of potential parental efficacy and increased acceptance of their pregnancies. Pregnant women who receive sufficient social support from immediate networks have increased potential to embrace and give attention to pregnancy-related changes CONCLUSION: Focusing on less-examined characteristics that could enhance pregnant women's health could help in the reduction of deaths that arise because of pregnancy complications and contribute in globally accelerating increased accessibility to adequate reproductive health CONTRIBUTION: This study's findings emphasise the necessity for policymakers and healthcare providers to educate the broader community about the importance of partner, family and peer support to minimise risks that may affect pregnancy care and wellbeing of mothers

Keywords : social support; pregnancy care; wellbeing; maternal health; Soweto; South Africa.

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