The single word, “pregnant”, conveys a life-altering event – and the feeling you get if you have ever seen those two blue lines or read the word on a pregnancy test!! Finding out you are pregnant can be anxiety-producing, regardless of whether it was planned or unplanned. This may be more so if you are in your adolescent years, trying to balance the stress and natural worries of added responsibility along with the potential excitement of bringing a new life into the world.
Since, in most societies, teenage pregnancies are discouraged, teen mothers are often either hesitant to come forward with the news or, after disclosing it, struggle with feelings of shame.
If this is you, these realities may cause you to not seek out the proper care and counseling you deserve. So, let’s discuss the actions that need to be taken once you find out about your pregnancy and the steps required in maintaining a healthy pregnancy.
Seek Help
Get guidance from the right people. While saying, “I want to talk to you about my pregnancy” may be the hardest thing you’ve ever had to say, you can do it! You can get counseling from your doctor; discuss with the father of the baby and, most importantly, your parents. Be sure to have proper prenatal care. Have a very thorough and honest discussion with your physician on your health because teenage pregnancies can come with their own unique health challenges.
Decision based on you
Understand that your pregnancy is nothing to be ashamed of, and no one can force you into making a decision that you’re not comfortable with! Know the pros and cons based on your personal situation and make a decision accordingly.
Think well and plan up
Understand that, yes, you’ll most definitely be missing out on quite a few things that other teenagers may be doing. Continuing your own education will be more challenging for you than some of your other peers, potentially. Weigh up your pregnancy options – raising your child with a partner, without a partner or making an alternate parenting plan for your baby.
Substance abuse
Strictly keep away from any sort of drugs, alcohol or smoking. Not only are they bad for a pregnant mother, but they endanger the child’s health in the long run in many ways. Instead, start a healthy diet plan.
Prepare for the upcoming challenge
Enroll yourself in proper classes on childbirth and parenting. If taking classes isn’t possible for you, you can always research online. You may find pregnancy counseling help at local pregnancy resource centers. Do your best to educate yourself about the imminent changes coming in your life.
The most imperative part of childbirth and becoming a parent is getting yourself prepared and ready to take on what lies ahead of you! If your choice is to parent, there is help and support for you. Work to surround yourself with people who will support and encourage you on your parenting journey.
Gateway Women’s Care is happy to support you in this journey and can help you as a teen facing an unplanned pregnancy. We can connect you to resources and discuss your options.
Give us a call today.
Gateway Women’s Care Raleigh (919) 833-0096, Durham (919) 251-9444 and Chapel Hill (919) 537-8220.
