Also called: Adolescent pregnancy
Most teenagers don't plan to get pregnant, but many do. Teen pregnancies carry extra health risks to the mother and the baby. Often, teenagers don't receive timely prenatal care, and they have a higher risk for pregnancy-related high blood pressure and its complications. Risks for the baby include premature birth and a low birthweight.
If you're a pregnant teenager, you can help yourself and your baby by
* Taking your prenatal vitamins for your health and to prevent some birth defects
* Avoiding smoking, alcohol and drugs
* Using a condom, if you are still having sex, to prevent sexually transmitted diseases that could hurt your baby
Pregnancy and childbirth
Pregnancy and childbirth change your life. When you are pregnant, you must care for and think about two people—you and your baby. This pamphlet explains:
* Why prenatal care is so important
* Some changes you may need to make during pregnancy
* How to plan for your baby and your future
Prenatal Care
As soon as you think you may be pregnant you should call your doctor to schedule an appointment. Prenatal care is the health care you get while you are pregnant. It includes medical care and counseling. The earlier you get pre-natal care, the better your chances are for a healthy pregnancy and baby.
If you do not have the money for prenatal care or a way to get to an office or clinic, there are groups at schools or in your community that will help you. Talk with a counselor or school nurse.
Visits With Your Doctor
At your first prenatal visit, your doctor or nurse will ask you many questions. You will be asked about the date of your last menstrual period. This will help to find out how many weeks pregnant you are and when your baby will be born (your due date). A pregnancy is measured in weeks. A normal pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks.
You will have a complete physical exam, which may include a pelvic exam. If you have never had a pelvic exam before, ask your doctor to explain it to you. You also will have a urine test, some blood tests, and tests for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
As your pregnancy continues, you will visit your doctor more often. At your visits, your doctor can answer any questions you may have. He or she will give you tests to check on your health and the health of your baby. A pelvic exam is not needed at each visit.
Childbirth Classes
In childbirth classes, you can learn more about pregnancy, giving birth, breastfeeding, and being a parent. There may be special classes for pregnant teens. There are also classes that can help you learn how to take care of your baby. This includes how to feed, diaper, and bathe your baby. You also will learn how to keep your baby healthy and how to deal with his or her crying. You can ask other mothers, family members, or health care staff to teach you, too.