How to Deal With Teen Pregnancy
Being a teenage parent isn't easy. Even so, thousands of teenagers find a way to make it work, and many are able to complete high school and care for their babies. There are many challenges along the way. Still, a pregnancy isn't the end of the world.
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Tell your boyfriend and parents about the pregnancy. It's natural to be afraid or feel embarrassed. However, a pregnancy is serious and it's best to tell your family and the baby's father right away.
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Consider the options available to you. Talk with your parents and the baby's father and determine the best way to handle the situation. For example, you can decide to keep the baby or consider an adoption. If you choose adoption, consider an open adoption or have a family member adopt the baby.
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Find a place to live. If your parents are upset and decide to kick you out the house, contact a relative or close friend and ask to stay with them. During this time, actively look for your own place. You'll likely qualify for affordable housing programs offered by the city.
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Decide whether to get married or stay single. Pregnancy isn't a reason to get married. On the other hand, if you and your boyfriend love each other, and you want to raise the baby together, marriage is worth considering. If you are under the age of 18, you'll need parental consent.
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Look into different home school options. Some teen girls have a smooth pregnancy and experience little sickness. On the other hand, a few girls are sick the entire nine months. In this case, you may consider enrolling in a home school program.
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Take teen parenting and breastfeeding classes. Contact your local hospital or community center and inquire about parenting classes for teens. Most cities offer monthly programs, and hospitals often host breastfeeding classes.
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Apply for health insurance assistance and WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children). If you don't have maternity coverage, apply for Medicaid. Also, talk with a social worker and determine whether you qualify for WIC, a program that provides low-cost baby supplies and other assistance.
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