Introduction: Globally, unmet need for family planning among adolescents contributes to unintended pregnancies and related health and social consequences such as unsafe abortions. Parents and guardians can influence adolescents’ access to and use of family planning services. This study explored parents and guardian perceptions of adolescents’ utilisation of family planning services in Chawama, Lusaka District. Methods: This qualitative exploratory study included 20 purposely selected parents and guardians of adolescents. Face to face interviews were conducted in participants’ homes using a semi structured interview guide. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed thematically until thematic saturation was reached. Results: The study revealed that parents perceived family planning services as acceptable for some adolescents depending on their age, sexual activity and method being used. Abstinence and condoms were the preferred methods of family planning for adolescents. Adolescents were engaging in sex but not using family planning services for pleasure, lack of knowledge on family planning services among adolescents, and fear of parents or infertility in adult life. Family Planning Services were perceived as beneficial for goal fulfilment by preventing pregnancy while in school and sexually transmitted infections including HIV/AIDS. Family planning and sexual reproductive health education were perceived as a collective responsibility for teachers, parents and health personnel. However, the initial SRH education for adolescents was looked at as a responsibility for parents. Parents expressed the desire to learn effective approach to discussing the topic and the suitable FP methods for this age group. Conclusion: Parents and guardians generally supported family planning for sexually active adolescents, particularly to prevent unintended pregnancy and support educational goals, but expressed concerns and misconceptions about some methods. Strengthening parent-adolescent communication and providing accurate, age-appropriate family planning information may support informed decision-making.Subject AreasSociology
Cite this paper
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