Teen Pregnancy: Questions and Answers
What is teen pregnancy?
Teen pregnancy is when a girl under the age of 20 becomes pregnant. It is a serious issue that can have lasting consequences for both the mother and the child.
What are the risks of teen pregnancy?
Teen pregnancy can lead to a number of health risks for both the mother and the child. These risks include:
- For the mother:
- Preeclampsia
- Eclampsia
- Gestational diabetes
- Anemia
- Postpartum depression
- For the child:
- Premature birth
- Low birth weight
- Birth defects
- Developmental delays
What are the social and economic consequences of teen pregnancy?
Teen pregnancy can also have a number of social and economic consequences for both the mother and the child. These consequences include:
- For the mother:
- Dropping out of school
- Unemployment
- Poverty
- Homelessness
- For the child:
- Growing up in poverty
- Experiencing child abuse and neglect
- Dropping out of school
- Getting involved in crime
What are the causes of teen pregnancy?
There are a number of factors that can contribute to teen pregnancy. These factors include:
- Lack of education about sex and pregnancy
- Peer pressure
- Poverty
- Family problems
- Mental health issues
What can be done to prevent teen pregnancy?
There are a number of things that can be done to prevent teen pregnancy. These things include:
- Providing comprehensive sex education
- Encouraging teens to delay sexual activity
- Making contraception available to teens
- Supporting teens who are pregnant or parenting
What are the resources available for teens who are pregnant or parenting?
There are a number of resources available for teens who are pregnant or parenting. These resources include:
- Prenatal care
- Delivery services
- Postpartum care
- Parenting classes
- Financial assistance
If you are a teen who is pregnant or parenting, it is important to seek help from a trusted adult. There are many people who can help you through this difficult time.
Additional Questions and Answers
What are the signs and symptoms of pregnancy?
The signs and symptoms of pregnancy can vary from woman to woman. Some of the most common signs and symptoms include:
- Missed period
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue
- Tender breasts
- Frequent urination
How can I confirm that I am pregnant?
The only way to confirm that you are pregnant is to take a pregnancy test. Pregnancy tests are available at most pharmacies and can be used at home.
What should I do if I am pregnant?
If you are pregnant, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor will be able to confirm your pregnancy and provide you with prenatal care. Prenatal care is important for both you and your baby. It can help to ensure that you have a healthy pregnancy and that your baby is born healthy.
What are my options if I am pregnant?
If you are pregnant, you have three options:
- Keep the baby
- Adopt the baby
- Terminate the pregnancy
The decision of what to do is a personal one. It is important to weigh the pros and cons of each option before making a decision.
Where can I get help if I am pregnant or parenting?
There are a number of resources available for teens who are pregnant or parenting. These resources include:
- Planned Parenthood
- The National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy
- The National Sexual Violence Resource Center
- Your local health department
These organizations can provide you with information, support, and resources.