Oral health experiences of pregnant and parenting adolescent women: A qualitative descriptive study

摘要

Background: Oral health may plan an important role in the general health of adolescents who are pregnant and parenting. However, little is known about the socio-behavioral and environmental experiences that may affect the adolescent woman's oral health and quality of life. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to explore oral health experiences among adolescent women who were pregnant and parenting. Design: This was a qualitative descriptive study. Participants: Twenty-four adolescent women who were pregnant and parenting, 14-18 years of age, who read and spoke English and were enrolled in an alternative school-based program. Methods: Manifest and latent content analysis were conducted by hand with data from face-to-face interviews, observations, field notes, and reflective journaling. Member checks confirmed credibility of the qualitative findings. Results: Four themes emerged from the oral health data: perceptions, knowledge and practices, myths and misconceptions, and values. Conclusion: Nurses may play a key role in improving the oral health status of adolescents who are pregnant and parenting. Oral health should be a routine part of every general health assessment.