An interpretative phenomenological analysis of the lived experiences of young Chinese females in the course of unintended pregnancy

Research in the West has increasingly recognized the importance of understanding the perceptions and experiences of young pregnant females; however, limited studies are available in Chinese societies. This paper investigates the experiences of 10 young pregnant Chinese females living in Hong Kong. Through the use of individual interviews and the method of interpretive phenomenological analysis, the researchers were able to explore how the research participants made sense of their personal and social worlds. This research strategy also adds a cultural perspective in analyzing their stories in the context of Hong Kong. Recurrent themes identified in their stories revealed their thoughts, feelings, and actions in encountering the unintended pregnancy. The themes can be grouped into four categories, namely 1) pregnancy resolution: self-determination vs. significant others' influences; 2) emotional experiences after the termination of pregnancy: sense of relief vs. sense of guilt and sadness; 3) identity of young pregnant females: self-perception vs. others' perceptions and 4) pursuing an intimate relationship: love vs. sex. The findings provide a knowledge base for an understanding of the perspectives of young pregnant women and open up valuable reflections and discussions about adolescent pregnancy in Chinese societies. Implications can also be drawn for intervention, prevention, and research.