Empowering Adolescent Mothers: A Critical Strategy for Ensuring the Health of the Future Generation

Abstract

This report aims to provide practical strategies to enhance the self-efficacy of adolescent mothers in caring for themselves and their children. Teenage pregnancy is a multidimensional challenge whose consequences affect both maternal health and child development. Qualitative research findings showed that interventions based on strengthening self-efficacy can significantly improve adjustment to the role of motherhood and improve the quality of care. Four policy options were proposed in the report based on the qualitative study findings, each with its own advantages and challenges. “Integrating the program into the current health service structure” was identified as the most efficient strategy, as it uses existing infrastructure and has broad coverage. However, the success of this strategy depends on specialized training of staff and the allocation of sufficient financial resources. Peer education programs are also a good option for urban areas because they build trust and support networks among adolescents. Family-centered education, although it has good long-term results, requires more time to change cultural attitudes. Finally, targeted financial support, which can be useful, requires the design of careful monitoring mechanisms, given the challenges of bureaucracy and dependence on government funding. The successful implementation of these programs requires intersectoral collaboration, sustainable resource allocation, and continuous monitoring. These strategies include the establishment of a policy-making council, the design of national adolescent-friendly service packages, the revision of school regulations to support continued education, the reform of medical and midwifery curricula, and collaboration with media outlets and cultural institutions. Investment in this area not only improves the health of adolescent mothers, but can also be justified as an investment in the health of the next generation. © 2026, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.