Exploring the influence of psychosociocultural factors on substance use among adolescent expectant mothers in Bolgatanga municipality: a qualitative study

The findings indicate that while adolescent expectant mothers possess knowledge about the risks and consequences of substance use during pregnancy, many continue to engage in such behaviours. Peer and family influences, alongside cultural beliefs and community attitudes, were identified as key drivers of substance use. These results highlight the need for targeted, culturally sensitive substance use education and intervention programmes within antenatal clinics and the broader community to support adolescent mothers in reducing substance use during pregnancy.