‘When I got pregnant, I was really scared’: US youth in foster care’s perspectives on pregnancy and parenting while in care

Young people in foster care in the USA face numerous challenges, including a higher risk of unplanned pregnancy compared to their peers. This qualitative study explored the experiences of young Black women (aged 18-20 years) in foster care of pregnancy and parenting. Semi-structured interviews with eight participants who gave birth while in foster care revealed how the inconsistent use of birth control methods contributed to unplanned pregnancies. Participants reported limited support and resources from caregivers and healthcare providers and faced challenges as new mothers due to feeling unprepared and experiencing unstable housing. Despite these challenges, participants described their children as positive influences on their lives, providing motivation and love. These findings highlight the need for youth-friendly, accessible sexual and reproductive health education and comprehensive support from caregivers and healthcare providers to promote the well-being of young mothers and their infants.