Teenage Pregnancy JamaicaTeenage Pregnancy Jamaica looks at the ever present topic for discussion and examines some of the reasons behind the problem. This article by Abhishek Agarwal opens a window into the cultural aspects of teenage pregnancy Jamaica. The figures for teenage pregnancy in Jamaica are startling! Before the age of 20, some 20% of Jamaican women have been pregnant at least once; 48% of males 15-19 years of age do not use condoms with their regular sexual partner, while 41% do not use condoms with a non-regular partner. Jamaica's teen pregnancy epidemic is hidden beneath many layers of denial, ignorance, and social and cultural misinformation.
Youth friendly services in the country are extremely rare, and unless taught at home, young girls aren't educated about contraception that could prevent teen pregnancy. 60% of females say they do not use condoms with their regular partner and 46% say they do not use one with their non-regular partner. The boys say they don't like male condoms, and the girls claim they're not even aware of the existence of female condoms. There is more to consider in regards to the Jamaican teenage pregnancy epidemic than just social programs and the budget deficit.  Christian beliefs place a sexual taboo on girls and their sexuality, which contributes to the lack of information readily available. This "abstinence only" policy creates secrecy and therefore ignorance contributing to teen pregnancy statistics; adolescents aren't given information about sexuality, maturation, contraception, or intercourse. Because of the taboo many boys and girls refuse to even purchase condoms in their own communities. Many myths are also present in Jamaican society as a result of the Christian taboo regarding sex and contraception. Many Jamaican girls believe that douching after intercourse with Pepsi, or engaging in intercourse in the ocean will prevent pregnancy. These myths are all too often relied upon instead of the medical facts, and they contribute to the country-wide ignorance adolescent’s face in regards to intercourse and teen pregnancy. About the Author: Abhishek has seen many childbirths in his huge family! Visit www.Childbirth-Guru.com and Download Abhishek's FREE Report "How To Dress And Look Your Best During Pregnancy!". Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com Return to Jamaica Culture from Teenage Pregnancy Jamaica
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Jamaica has experienced marginal economic growth in recent decades and what little money that does come into the country is funneled only into the budget deficit. Many programs suffer, including the social assistance programs that would normally educate young people about sexuality and pregnancy. 
