Dayanna N. Pérez-Cavazos, Doctorado en Ciencias de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, N.L., México
Dora J. Onofre-Rodríguez, Doctorado en Filosofía, Facultad de Enfermería, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, N.L., México
Natanael Librado-González, Doctorado en Ciencias de Enfermería, Área Académica de Enfermería, Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Pachuca, Hgo., México
Yesenia Ramírez-Espinobarros, Doctorado en Ciencias de Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, N.L., México
Raquel A. Benavides-Torres, Doctorado en Filosofía en Enfermería, Facultad de Enfermería, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, N.L., México
Introduction: Adolescent pregnancy is a public health issue with medical, social, and economic consequences. Prevention through contraceptive methods depends on adolescents’ knowledge, intention, and actual use. Objective: To describe the level of knowledge, intention, and use of contraceptive methods among adolescent mothers. Method: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with 98 adolescent mothers receiving care at a hospital in Monterrey, Mexico. Validated surveys were administered to assess sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, and contraceptive use. Results: Most participants demonstrated low knowledge about contraceptive methods, particularly hormonal methods and condoms. Approximately half reported using some method, usually for short periods. The intention to start or continue using contraceptives was high, especially regarding long-acting and barrier methods. Conclusion: The findings reveal gaps in knowledge and a mismatch between intention and actual use. Strengthening comprehensive sexual education, counseling, and access to contraceptive methods is needed to promote reproductive autonomy and adherence. Additionally, it is essential to foster shared-responsibility approaches that involve partners and the broader social context in order to guide prevention strategies tailored to the needs of this population.
Keywords: Adolescent pregnancy. Contraception. Adolescent mothers.