Dealing with teenage pregnancy
Teenage pregnancy is a rather frightening reality that can change your life.Good news is that teenage pregnancy is avoidable. By not having sex,you never risk getting pregnant.If you do decide to have sex, it’s best to stay informed about what you can do to avoid unwanted pregnancy.
If you do get pregnant being a teen then you must take care of yourself. Pregnant teens and their babies are at higher risk of health problems than are pregnant women who are older. The most common complications for pregnant teens — especially those younger than age 15 and those who don’t receive prenatal care — include a low level of iron in the blood (anemia), high blood pressure and preterm labor. Babies born to teen mothers are more likely to be born prematurely and have a low birth weight.
As a teen, if you decide to continue the pregnancy, you should:
- Seek medical care, particularly prenatal advice.
- Eat a healthy diet. A pregnant teen needs more folic acid, calcium, iron, protein and other essential nutrients.
- Stay physically active.
- Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and other illegal drugs. Even prescription and over-the-counter medications deserve caution.
- Talk to mothers in your neighbourhood. It will help you prepare for pregnancy, childbirth, breast-feeding and being a parent.
Teenage pregnancy often has a negative impact on a teen’s future. Teen mothers are less likely to graduate from high school, are more likely to live in poverty, and are at risk of domestic violence.