Graduate Research Papers

Availability

Open Access Graduate Research Paper

Abstract

According to Bachman (1993), "Childbirth is now lonelier and more psychologically stressful than in the past," especially for adolescents. Today, nurses have found themselves farther from the bedside because of the increase in technology and the way shifts are staffed. Over-crowded maternity clinics and short hospital stays have given nurses little or no time to provide health education and information to the high-risk population of pregnant teens (Bachman, 1993). The caring and nurturing touch of nurses can often be overshadowed by these changes (Herrick & Perez, 1998). Perhaps, because of the nurse's busy schedule, women rate a partner's presence as extremely important.

Kennel states that supportive female companions during childbirth can reduce the need for a cesarean section, reduce obstetric interventions, promote shorter labors and cause fewer perinatal problems in the fetuses and neonates (Kennell, 1991). This is important because of the potential financial, physical, and emotional consequences. Any new information regarding the support system will add to the baseline of information already established for pregnant adolescents. The adolescent is able to make healthier decisions for herself and for her unborn child regarding the laboring process when she is nurtured by an adequate support system.

This literature review will examine the etiology of adolescent pregnancy and the labor support measures that adolescent use, specifically doulas.

Year of Submission

2007

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Department

School of Health, Physical Education, and Leisure Services

First Advisor

Diane Depken

Comments

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Date Original

2007

Object Description

1 PDF file (64 pages)

Language

en

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