Teen Pregnancy Issues And Challenges
Let’s face it, teenage pregnancy can be difficult. It is possible. You are an example of the young women who persevere with teenage pregnancy. It’s hard enough being a teenager. Add in the challenges of pregnancy and all the planning and preparation it requires.
Let’s take a look at the most difficult areas teens face when trying to conceive. Find out how to tell parents and boyfriends the news, how to keep your baby safe, and more information about teen pregnancy prevention. Our Healthy Teen Pregnancy page will provide more information about healthy choices for pregnancy.
The life of a teenage pregnant girl
Women can have children from the moment they become pregnant. However, it is possible to run into problems if you have a child as early as your teens. These things may not happen but it is worth talking to your doctor to find out about any concern signs and symptoms. These risks are higher if you’re pregnant before 15 years old or don’t seek prenatal treatment.
Premature/low birth weight
Anemia (low iron)
– high blood pressure/pregnancy-induced hypertension, PIH (can lead to preeclampsia)
– A higher infant mortality rate (death)
– Potentially higher risk of cephalopelvic dysproportion* (baby’s skull is larger than the pelvic opening).
Teens are at greater risk for preterm births. Teens also have the potential to not get enough nutrients (such a prenatal vitamin) during pregnancy. Prenatal visits are important. It is also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Taking childbirth and parenting classes will help reduce the risks. *This is supported in some studies. However, it has also been disproven elsewhere. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns about an early pregnancy or pelvic underdevelopment.
Maintaining a social life in teen pregnancy
Relationships are important no matter your age. Most people feel the need to be socially active. These relationships can be with family members, friends, or your boyfriend. Teen pregnancy may cause many changes.
People who are close to me
You may feel more tired during pregnancy than you do when you are at your best, which could mean you sleep more than you see your family, friends, or boyfriend. This can be avoided by planning ahead and budgeting your time. Group events are a great way to meet multiple people. While you may not have the time to spend with every person, at least you’ll be able share some time with them. A relationship can become strained if there are mood swings. It’s normal to feel like you are on an emotional rollercoaster during teen pregnancy. However your boyfriend or friends may not have experienced it and may not know what they can expect. Talking to your family members, friends and/or boyfriend about mood swings is a smart idea. Give them tips for getting back to normal. It is also important to find activities that keep your temper in check. You can take a relaxing bath with music or slow breathing exercises. Teen pregnancy can be difficult enough. You need to take time to reflect, recharge, and plan.
A male romantic partner
Teen pregnancy can be stressful, especially if you are not planning. This is likely to be your first experience in pregnancy. It can be difficult to learn basic information about your partner during pregnancy. You may also feel pressure to make sure your relationship is healthy. Or will I be able to trust him? Or will we marry each other? Talk to someone you trust. After you have had time to reflect on your thoughts, you can talk to your boyfriend. Talking to your boyfriend should not sound accusatory. This will only make him defensive. Teen pregnancy can be difficult, regardless of whether you are working together. Do not judge his reactions.
Plan multiple conversations. This will make it easier for you to adapt to the situation and talk through any personal or teen issues.
Moms and Dads
Your pregnancy can make it difficult for you to live with your parents. Your relationship may be put at risk if you lose trust in your parents. Do your best to earn their trust in small ways throughout your pregnancy. So that your parents aren’t reminded of everything, keep track of vitamins, doctor appointments, parenting classes, etc. To show your concern for them, do something more around the house. Tell them the truth! It’s easier for trust to be lost than for it to be rebuilt. Your parents might feel too concerned for your baby and may be overbearing. Talk to your parents calmly if necessary, but remember that they are doing so because they care. Some teens learn that their parents will speak out against teen pregnancy. They may also decide to end the pregnancy. You don’t have to be discouraged if this happens. For assistance, call us at 1-800-672-2296.
High school
You may have many questions about your future life after having a baby. You may need to be absent from school for medical appointments or check-ups. You might have morning sickness or other symptoms that make it difficult to stay on schedule. Or maybe you fear that you may have to abandon your favorite sports or activities. You might be wondering what you should do when you have to give birth. Can you still manage schoolwork and your baby? You, your parents, school leaders, teachers, as well as your doctor, will need to communicate this information. In order to be allowed to go to special bathrooms or get out of class, you may need doctor’s authorization. Your doctor may advise you to avoid the sport if you are pregnant. You may have to take extra classes or make up the time in summer school if your due date falls during school year. There may be a school plan for teenagers with teen pregnancies. It is possible. Talk to your counselor, principal, and teachers. You may also consider looking into schools for teens who are pregnant. The timing and curriculum are designed specifically for you so that you can continue high school. If you are pregnant with a high-risk pregnancy or feel you cannot handle schoolwork, it may be worth looking into online classes that allow you to get your GED. You can apply to college once you have graduated. Adoption is a relatively normal option. After 9 months, you may be able resume your previous activities. Consider how much time and effort you are able to dedicate to your child’s education. There are many colleges that offer child care programs. If you live near one, your parents may be willing to provide childcare.
Attending college
Plan ahead, especially if your college is already full. How long do you need to leave college? What kind childcare do you offer? What kind of childcare is offered by the college? How can you afford classes and will your parents continue to fund your education? If you are pregnant and have started a semester, consider working part-time to make more money and manage your time. You will need to work with your partner to determine earning options. Ask your college about the options available to pregnant students/students who have children. Ask questions early. There are many options. It will be difficult, especially if it is your first pregnancy or your second. There are still ways to graduate college and continue your studies. You are a woman like every other day.
After Teen Pregnancy: Caring for your Newborn
Although it can be challenging to find work during pregnancy, or for moms, it is possible. You’ll need to find a job that is flexible with your work schedule. Communicate a time-off plan when your due date is near. Your job should be flexible with you.
You should remember that many states make it illegal to fire employees. You can trust that your employer will be cooperative. You should also remember that it is against the law in many states to lay off or fire employees because they are pregnant or taking medical leave. It is possible to fire or lay off an employee due to pregnancy or medical leave. You may wish consult a legal representative. You may have to make financial decisions about how you provide for your newborn. Temporary assistance programs are available for those who are in financial difficulties. These programs include housing assistance and financial assistance.
Budgeting and useful tips
Budgeting can help you save money. Your paycheck should be used to fund the most important expenses first: rent, utilities and medical care. Food for your baby is also important. Here are some suggestions:
– Create a budget. Then, calculate what amount you make each month. You will then be able see how much each item can cost. It is the little things that add up and can leave you with very little money at month’s end. Don’t spend more than what you have available.
Couponing is a great way to save money! Coupons are available in weekly ads, magazines, and online. Couponing is tricky because you won’t be tempted to buy something simply because there is a coupon.
Calculate how much baby formula/food, diapers/wipes and other items cost each week and month. Then look for sales and purchase when they are on sale! For baby shower gifts, many women want diapers in every size.
You will need to stop going to the salon for hair or nails, and eating out at restaurants. There are occasions that you should celebrate, but it’s important to take a break from the routine. Use coupons and gift cards you receive for holidays or baby showers to treat yourself.
Avoid buying from the brand. Non-brand name products can be a huge savings on grocery bills. Don’t forget about the sale items!
– Visit a discount retailer to get similar items at a lower cost.
It’s not easy to meet all the challenges listed above, but it doesn’t stop you from achieving your goals. Remember that you have support, resources and help available to you. You will find support and encouragement from others, which will help you persevere and be part of the growing network of teen moms. Ask for help. There might be many people in your family who are willing to help but don’t know where to start. To help you get through difficult times, it helps to have a close friend, family member, or boyfriend who is willing to go with you. A mentor might be able to help you set up a budget, or connect with resources.
