Pregnant Teens - Keep the baby?

Once you become a pregnant teen obviously there is no turning back or changing your mind. It is probably the end of the world as you knew it, BUT it is definitely not THE end of the world. Rest assured if you are the pregnant teen there are teen pregnancy statistics that prove you are not the first or the last pregnant teen. And if you are the parent of a pregnant teen you also are not the first or last. As a teen you may be scared, happy, sad, depressed, confused, excited, worried...Or many of these all together. Many parents find themselves more along the lines of upset, worried, loving, embarrassed, angry, supportive...But whether you are a pregnant teen or the parent of a pregnant teen rest assured that you have options. In this post we are going to talk about the options if you choose to keep the baby and the next post will be about what options are available if you are not ready or not sure about keeping the baby and becoming a parent.

Keep the baby.

1. Some teens decide to get married and keep the baby. If you choose this I would encourage premarital counseling, finding a way to complete your education, and educate yourself on prenatal care, birthing, parental responsibilities, and child care.
2. Some teens keep the baby but stay single, and independent. Some choose this and others are faced with he fact that they are willing to become a parent while the father does not. This can be very difficult but not impossible. Either way, if you choose this path I still recommend the things above only personal counseling vs. premarital counseling.
3. Some teens do not get married but choose to remain living with their parents so they will have financial, emotional, and physical support. Again...I still recommend everything in #2
4. Maternity group homes may also be a consideration. These programs typically provide education, diet and medical support, child care, and emotional support from others who understand. They are designed to help you learn how to become an independent parent.