Exploring the lived experiences of adolescent mothers in Burera and Nyarugenge districts, Rwanda: a phenomenological study

BACKGROUND: Adolescent pregnancy remains a major public health concern globally, with approximately 21 million girls aged 15-19 becoming pregnant each year. Sub-Saharan Africa bears a disproportionate burden due to structural, social, and health-system challenges. In Rwanda, 8% of girls aged 15-19 have experienced pregnancy. Despite national policies aimed at improving sexual and reproductive health services, limited evidence exists on the lived experiences of adolescent mothers in different community contexts in Rwanda. This study explored the experiences, coping strategies, and support systems of adolescent mothers following their first pregnancy. METHODS: A qualitative descriptive phenomenological approach was employed. In-depth interviews were conducted with 20 adolescent mothers aged 15-17 years who had given birth within the previous two years in Burera and Nyarugenge districts, Rwanda, between August and October 2024. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis to capture participants' lived experiences. RESULTS: Adolescent mothers described intense emotional responses to pregnancy, including shock, fear, and isolation. Social stigma and family rejection emerged as significant challenges, often undermining self-esteem and the availability of social support. Despite these barriers, participants demonstrated resilience by drawing on family, community networks, and antenatal care services across their communities. Regret related to missed contraceptive use was common, alongside strong aspirations for continued education, economic independence, and personal growth. CONCLUSION: Adolescent motherhood in Burera and Nyarugenge districts of Rwanda is shaped by intersecting individual, relational, community, and structural factors. Limited sexual and reproductive health knowledge, exposure to sexual coercion, and socio-economic vulnerabilities contribute to early pregnancy, while supportive families and community networks promote resilience and coping. The findings highlight the need for strengthened adolescent-friendly SRH education, stigma-reduction strategies, and context-sensitive interventions addressing practical barriers such as childcare, economic hardship, and school reintegration.