My ethnographic research focuses on the phenomenon of teen pregnancy on Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo, Mexico. This longitudinal study explores the reflective perspectives of Mexican teen mothers based on how their experiences and identities are shaped through cultural discourses on motherhood and respectability, as well as their access to resources. I discuss my informants’ knowledge and access to contraceptives. Also, I investigate the existing reproduction and sexual health education available to people on the island.

I utilize both quantitative and qualitative measures such as structured interviews, opportunistic interviews, open-ended interviews, follow-up interviews, participant observation, surveys, and a literature review. Data comes from two periods of fieldwork in 2015 and 2019. My investigation is significant because I discuss access to birth control, sexual education, health care, and services for young women. Another significance is that it puts the voices of Mexican teen mothers front and center as opposed to overlooking their perspectives and solely focusing on the clinical aspects of teenage pregnancy.