Especially for Teens: Having a Baby

Being pregnant means big changes for any woman.

Pregnancy and childbirth change your life. If you are pregnant and plan to have the baby, you must now care for and think for two people — you and your baby.

Feelings

You may be happy that you are pregnant. You may be scared that you are pregnant. You may find it hard to believe or feel you are too young. You may feel like your life is out of control. You may need help with money or housing. Try talking to someone you trust and who can help you.

Choices

You have choices. You may decide to end the pregnancy (abortion) or have the baby. If you decide to end the pregnancy, the earlier you do so the better.

You can obtain counseling about pregnancy options from your doctor or agencies such as Planned Parenthood.

If you decide to have the baby, you also have choices about what to do after the baby is born. You can keep the baby. You can place the baby for adoption. Talk with your family, doctor, a social worker, or a member of the clergy about your choices.

The final decision about pregnancy is yours.

Being a Mother

Having a baby means you have to get used to a new way of life. Your baby will need your care for much of the day and night.

Caring for the Baby

Caring for a baby can enrich your life. It also is a lot of work and responsibility.

Costs of Raising a Baby

You should plan for the costs of raising a baby. You and your baby will need a place to live and money for food and clothing. You also may have other needs, such as a car seat, a stroller, or child care.

Prenatal Care

Prenatal care is the health care you receive before your baby is born. It includes medical care and counseling. The earlier you get prenatal care, the better your chances are for a healthy pregnancy, birth, and baby.

Visits With Your Doctor

At your first prenatal visit, your doctor or nurse will ask you many questions.

You will have a complete physical exam, which may include a pelvic exam.

Your doctor will set up a prenatal care plan for you. As your pregnancy goes on, you will visit your doctor more often.

Childbirth Classes

As part of your prenatal care, it's a good idea to take childbirth classes. Most areas offer classes led by trained staff.

Changes You May Need to Make

There may be some changes in your lifestyle you need to make now. You should eat healthy foods and avoid things that could cause harm to your baby, such as alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and other drugs.

Eating Well

Eating the right food can increase the chance you and your baby will be healthy.

Because pregnancy requires extra nutrients, your doctor may prescribe a prenatal vitamin for you.

Make sure you are getting enough (at least 0.4 mg) of folic acid each day. If taken in the first three months of pregnancy, folic acid helps prevent certain birth defects of the spine and skull (neural tube defects).

Alcohol, Tobacco, Marijuana and Other Drugs

Alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and other drugs can harm your baby. If you use any of these substances, now is a good time to quit.

Risks of Problems

Pregnant teens are more at risk for certain health problems, such as high blood pressure or anemia (low iron in the blood). They also are more likely to go into labor too early.

Planning for Your Future

You can help make the future bright for you and your baby. Arrange to see your doctor four to six weeks after the baby is born to make sure you are healthy and to talk about your future health needs, including birth control.

The Postpartum Visit

Soon after your baby is born, you will need to visit your doctor for a postpartum visit. This is an important visit.

Birth Control

Not having sex — abstinence — is a sure way to avoid becoming pregnant again or getting an STD. If you choose to have sex, wait until your doctor tells you it is safe.

School

Planning for your future also involves finishing school. Finishing your education will help you get a better job, earn more money, and have a better life with your baby.

Finally ...

Being prepared for your baby and planning for your future will help you make a big difference in your life and in your baby's life.