EXPLORING ADOLESCENT MOTHERS' HIDDEN HUNGER, LACK OF NUTRITIONAL PRIORITY AND POSTPARTUM EXPERIENCES IN TRAMO STREET, BARANGAY STA. LUCIA

There are significant gaps in obtaining adequate nutrition for mothers during the postpartum period, as most attention is focused on the health and well-being of the newborn. This research primarily aimed to examine and analyze the issues concerning nutrition and its consequences among adolescent mothers in Tramo St., Pasig City. A descriptive phenomenological design was used in this qualitative study. Interviews with open-ended questions were conducted to further explore the experiences, perceptions, barriers, and their effects on the well-being of adolescent mothers. Adolescent mothers' health often suffers as they prioritize their child over themselves. Contributing factors to their lack of awareness include financial instability, food preferences, and the absence of formal education focusing on their nutritional needs after childbirth. The findings of this study revealed a concerning pattern of neglect regarding nutrition among adolescent mothers during the postpartum period in Tramo St., Pasig City, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted interventions and support.