ผลกระทบและการปรับตัวจากการตั้งครรภ์ไม่พึงประสงค์ของนักศึกษาในสถาบันอุดมศึกษาจังหวัดหนึ่งในภาคใต้

Abstract

The objectives of the study on "Impacts and Adaptations Resulting from Unwanted Pregnancy among Students in a Higher Education Institution in a Southern Province of Thailand" were to determine 1) impacts of students' unwanted pregnancy, and 2) adaptations resulting from students' unwanted pregnancy Data were collected through in-depth interviews with eight students who were pregnant while studying in a tertiary institution and opted to continue their pregnancy until giving births. The data were analyzed and presented with analytical description. The study found that impacts resulting from unwanted pregnancy among students could be classified into four aspects as follows. 1) Physical impacts divided into tivo phases the pregnancy period-nausea and vomiting of pregnancy (P) physical discomfort, inability to give birth the natural way and needing a aesarean section; and the post-delivery period-bodyweight change and stretch marks of the abdominal area. 2) Emotional and mental impacts-feeling afraid, sad, discouraged, suicidal, guilty, embarrassed and worried. 3) Socialimpacts —not being accepted by family, being blamed or despised by surrounding people, having to live secretively, inability to be fully dedicated to studies, quarrelling with the partner and being estranged. 4) Economic impacts-increased expenses and being in debt. The data were analyzed descriptively. Adaptations resulting from unwanted pregnancy could be classified in three aspects as follows. 1) Self-concept-The students had self-esteem, were confident that they could continue studying while pregnant and raise their child. They were positive, adapted the way they dress to hide their pregnancy, were self dependent and paid as much attention to studying as possible to be accepted by others, have a good job in the future, be able to raise themselves and their children, and to lead their lives morally correct to mitigate their feelings of guilt. 2) Role and responsibilities-in the role of a mother, they take care of their own health and the baby in the womb by choosing what to eat, getting enough sleep, and taking care of the baby at the same time as playing the role of a student who dedicate to studying and managing the time to achieve their studies and make their families proud of them. 3) Dependence on others-They asked for help in expenses for tuition fees, for advice and encouragement from their families, partners, friends, lecturers and their partner's family. Thus, it is recommended that higher education institutions should establish a unit that oversees and provides knowledge of pregnancy prevention, care and assistance, and advice when unwanted pregnancy has taken place so that students receive appropriate help.