Peer-reviewed article

Silenced, stigmatised and struggling : early childbearing, minority stress and mental distress among pregnant and parenting adolescent girls in an urban informal settlement in Kenya – an explanatory qualitative study

Vallery Auma Obure, Sally Atieno Odunga, Beryl Nyatuga Machoka, Caroline W. Kabiru, Anthony Idowu Ajayi · 1 Jul 2026

Abstract

Background: Early pregnancy is associated with poor mental health outcomes, but little is known about the extent to which stressors contribute to mental health challenges among pregnant or parenting adolescents. Informed by Meyer's minority stress theory, this study examines how generalised distal and proximal stressors affected adolescents' mental health. Methods: This explanatory qualitative study drew data from in-depth interviews with 22 adolescents (2 pregnant and 20 parenting) and 10 caregivers of pregnant or parenting adolescents in an urban informal settlement in Nairobi, Kenya. We used purposive sampling. The data were analysed using both inductive and deductive thematic analysis, guided by Meyer's minority stress theory. Findings: Pregnant and parenting adolescents faced generalised, distal and proximal stressors, including the burden of childcare, financial struggles and social rejection from partners, family, peers and the community. These experiences often led to internalised feelings of shame, disappointment, embarrassment, worthlessness, self-doubt and self-isolation. The combined impact of these stressors resulted in emotional distress, isolation, low self-esteem, emotional numbness, hopelessness, anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts. Social support from family, peers and community groups played a protective role by reducing stress and helping pregnant and parenting adolescents cope more effectively with their challenges. Conclusion: Early childbearing is associated with generalised, distal and proximal stressors that negatively impact the mental health of pregnant and parenting adolescents. It is crucial to recognise the complex interplay of these stressors and the resulting emotional distress, isolation and low self-esteem that these adolescents face. There is a need for a comprehensive support system that not only addresses emotional, social and economic needs but also reduces stigma surrounding adolescent childbearing.