Repeat Adolescent Pregnancies in Hmong Ethnic Groups, Thoeng District, Chiang Rai, Thailand

Abstract

Background: The Hmong ethnic group shares customs, traditions, and language influenced by a consistent social upbringing passed down through generations. Early marriage is seen as "normal," leading to early pregnancies and a rise in adolescent pregnancies, which poses numerous health problems. Furthermore, repeat pregnancies exacerbate these impacts.

Findings: Hmong adolescent girls possess knowledge about contraception methods but lack practical experience in their use, often receiving negative information about side effects. This indicates a perceived ability to prevent pregnancy but a lack of awareness, alongside a positive attitude towards repeat pregnancies, strongly supported by family—an external factor with a direct relationship. The power dynamic within the family, where the girl becomes the husband's property, means the husband's family leader influences the desire for children and expectations from pregnancy, including decisions related to reproductive health behaviors and accessing public health services. This leads to conformity with reference groups. These factors contribute to repeat pregnancies, which are reinforced by customs, culture, and beliefs, acting as significant enabling factors for the behavior of adolescent girls and their families, as well as self-care during pregnancy and after childbirth. Conclusion and Recommendations: A positive attitude towards repeat pregnancies, supported by family under enabling cultural traditions and beliefs, influences the behavior of adolescent girls to meet the expectations and desire for male offspring in Hmong society. It is suggested that reducing the severity of adolescent repeat pregnancy problems requires policy support from administrators at both ministerial and local levels, consistent with the context of the Hmong ethnic group.

Keywords Hmong ethnic group, Adolescents, Repeat pregnancy

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