Teenage Pregnancy Jamaica

Teenage pregnancy Jamaica is a common occurrence and a frequent topic of discussion.  This article looks at some of the cultural reasons behind this all too prevalent problem. 

About 20% of Jamaica's women have been pregnant at least once before turning 20.  Almost half of Jamaica's young men between 15 and 19 years old don't use condoms with their regular sexual partners; more than 40% don't even use them with casual partners. 

As for Jamaica's women, 60% say they don't use condoms with their regular partners, and almost half don't use them with casual partners.  Jamaican boys say they don't like using male condoms, and girls say they don't even know female condoms exist.

Clearly, Jamaica is experiencing an epidemic of teenage pregnancy.  This epidemic is hidden within several layers of ignorance and denial as well as cultural and social misinformation, all of which worsen the problem.

The island has enjoyed only minimal economic growth during recent years, and most of the country's funds are directed toward reducing its budget deficit.  As a result, social assistance programs that would otherwise teach Jamaica's youth about sexuality and pregnancy are suffering. 

Jamaica offers very few programs for its youth, and unless young girls are taught at home, they don't learn about the contraceptive methods that could prevent them from becoming pregnant.

However, the problem isn't just due to Jamaica's budget deficit and lack of educational programs.  The cultural beliefs of many Jamaicans contribute to teenage pregnancy.  Jamaica women view motherhood as a means of achieving status and self-identity as well as proving they're not infertile. 

The problem is compounded by the mixed messages Jamaican girls receive:  while getting pregnant seems acceptable culturally, strong Christian influences preach abstinence.

Most Jamaican teens aren't taught about their sexuality, intercourse or contraception, and many young people won't buy condoms because of the cultural taboo.

Jamaica's youth are also exposed to many myths stemming from the religious taboo about sex and contraception.  Two of the myths believed by many Jamaican girls are that having intercourse in the ocean or douching with Pepsi after sex will keep them from becoming pregnant.

Instead of relying on medical facts, Jamaica's youth frequently believe these myths.  Unfortunately, they only contribute to the nationwide ignorance about intercourse and teenage pregnancy.

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