If a teenager becomes sexually active, it seems the main consequence concern is pregnancy. Sexually active teenagers should also be concerned about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and infections (STIs), general sexual health and equally importantly, their emotions. But since pregnancy is the main concern, this article serves as a guide for parents and teens to learn about teenage pregnancy and how to support a pregnant teen emotionally.
Pregnancy Options
The first decision a pregnant teen must make is what to do about the pregnancy. With the help of her parents, father of the child, the child's father's parents, and even possibly health professionals, the teen can make an informed decision that she feels confident is the right decision for her. She can keep the baby knowing the challenges, responsibilities and emotions she will face. Another option is to give the baby up for adoption. She should explore all types of adoptions available (open, closed, etc.) and be prepared for the emotions that may pop up in the process and after the baby is born. The last option is to end the pregnancy. The teen should know about the health risks and emotions associated with making this choice. Some states require parental notification and/or approval for a teen who seeks out to terminate her pregnancy.
Ways to Make a Pregnancy Healthy
Teenagers are likely to face some complications in pregnancy, so once a teen learns she is pregnant and has decided she won't be ending the pregnancy, she has to stay healthy for her and the baby's sake. The number one thing to do is to seek prenatal care and take prenatal vitamins, which can be found over-the-counter or can be obtained at the doctor's office. Other ways to stay healthy include:
- getting tested for STDs/STIs
- maintaining a healthy, balanced diet
- staying physically active
- gaining the recommended weight during each trimester
- avoiding alcohol, tobacco, caffeine and drugs
If a teen doesn't have the finances or insurance to cover prenatal care, she and her parents can seek help through the Women Infants and Children (WIC) program or obtain help from a social worker.
Complications and Challenges of a Teenage Pregnancy
Because the body of a teenager is still developing, she and her baby are at a higher risk of health problems. The teen can go into premature labor, or have anemia and high blood sugar. In these cases, the baby is at a risk of premature birth and having a low birth weight.
Once a teenager learns she is pregnant, it seems the pregnancy will have a negative impact on the teenager's life and future. According to the Mayo Clinic, teen mothers are less likely to graduate high school, more likely to live in poverty and are at risk of domestic violence.
Teen fathers also finish fewer years of school, and are less likely to hold a steady job and earn a livable wage.
The child born to teenage parents is also more likely to have health and cognitive disorders and be neglected/abused. A girl baby is more likely to become a teen mother herself and a boy baby is more likely to serve time in prison.
Teens can try to defy these odds by continuing to attend school or taking online classes to receive their high school diplomas. Parents of a pregnant teen can educate and help her prepare financially for a child.
Being stressed out while pregnant isn't healthy. The teen is going through an array of emotions and the best thing parents can do is to love and support their daughter. This will help keep her calm and let her know she has a support system to rely on. Remember, though, it is the teen's pregnancy and she makes the final decision about any choices. The best thing parents can do is love, support and help guide their teen in a healthy direction while facing a pregnancy.
Mayo Clinic website
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