INTRODUCTION:
Early initiation of antenatal care (ANC) is essential for healthy pregnancy outcomes, yet many women present late at clinics. Concealing a pregnancy is a common reason for delayed ANC, but the motivations behind this behavior are not well understood. This study explored why pregnant women in Soweto, Johannesburg, hide their pregnancies.

METHODS:
A phenomenological qualitative design was used. Eleven pregnant women were purposively sampled and interviewed using semi-structured key informant interviews. Transcripts were analyzed thematically to identify common reasons for pregnancy concealment.

RESULTS:
Three main reasons were identified. First, fear of gossip, shame, and social stigma led women to hide their pregnancies. Second, beliefs in evil spirits, witchcraft, and jealousy influenced concealment. Third, uncertainty about paternity, particularly in cases of multiple partners, prompted women to keep pregnancies secret.

CONCLUSIONS:
Pregnancy concealment in Soweto is driven by socio-cultural and supernatural beliefs. These practices contribute to delayed access to ANC, missed opportunities for HIV prevention, limited management of sexually transmitted infections, and reduced guidance on nutrition and healthy behaviors during pregnancy. Understanding these motivations can inform culturally sensitive interventions to encourage early ANC attendance and improve maternal and child health outcomes.