Relações entre gestação na adolescência, saúde emocional materna e projeto de vida

Abstract

Adolescence is considered a complex social construct in which individuals undergo physical, psychological, sexual, emotional, and social transitions. Sexual behavior developed during adolescence, without proper community guidance, can lead to health problems and early pregnancy, potentially resulting in family, educational, and social repercussions. Considering the particularities of pregnancy during adolescence and its impacts on the life of the adolescent, there is a need to investigate the emotional health and life plans of these women. This research identified relationships between emotional health, life plans, and adolescent pregnancy. It is a descriptive and exploratory study with a cross-sectional design conducted from May to August 2023. Six pregnant adolescents admitted to the Obstetric Clinic of the University Hospital of the Federal University of Grande Dourados (HU-UFGD), aged 15 to 19 years old and in the third trimester of pregnancy, participated in the study. They were identified through medical records and responded to three instruments: 1) Sociodemographic Questionnaire, 2) Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale for Adolescents (EDAE-A), and 3) Life Plan Questionnaire adapted for this research, administered through interviews during the hospitalization period. Subsequently, feedback was provided to the participants regarding the investigated aspects, particularly their emotional health. Those who obtained clinical indicators on the EDAE-A were welcomed and referred to psychological services. Interview data were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis, while descriptive statistics were used for quantitative data. It was observed that the participants had life plans predominantly associated with family and material goals, such as starting a family and acquiring a house. However, these plans were considered poorly elaborated as they did not encompass how these objectives would be achieved. The life plan of some participants was modified due to pregnancy, either through adapting their plans or facing difficulties or postponing some goals. Regarding emotional health, high scores were identified on the EDAE-A, indicating indicators of stress, depression, and anxiety. Most participants scored at moderate, severe, or very severe risk levels in two subscales, with the majority of scores for anxiety and stress. Risk factors for emotional health were also identified, such as difficulty accepting pregnancy, especially by the family. As protective factors for pregnant adolescents, a support network and positive feelings associated with pregnancy/motherhood were identified. The results obtained assist in understanding the phenomenon of adolescent pregnancy and indicate factors that should be considered in psychosocial interventions aimed at this population, such as offering psychological prenatal care.