Finding out you are pregnant can be super-stressful, regardless of whether it was planned or unplanned…and probably even more so if you are an adolescent! Balancing the stress and worries of added responsibility, along with the potential excitement of bringing a new life into the world, is a lot to handle. In most cultures, teenage pregnancies are discouraged and teen moms can be hesitant to come forward with the news or, after disclosing it, struggle with feelings of shame. If this is you, these harsh realities may cause you to not seek out the proper care and counseling you deserve. So, let’s look at the steps you need to take once you find out about your pregnancy.
Seek Help
Get guidance from the right people. While telling someone, “I’m pregnant” may be the hardest thing you’ve ever had to say, you can do it! Girls in your situation have found that ultimately their parents will understand and yours will too. You can get counseling from a medical professional; discuss your pregnancy with the father of the baby; and most importantly, confide in your parents. If you’re under 18 years of age you must have parental consent to get an abortion in North Carolina. Be sure to seek out proper prenatal care. Have a very thorough and honest discussion with your physician on your health because teenage pregnancies can come with their own unique health challenges.
Decision based on you
Your unplanned pregnancy may have caused you to feel ashamed but putting that feeling aside, no one can force you into making a decision that you’re not comfortable with! Consider the pros and cons based on your personal situation and make your own decision. Gateway Women’s Care is here to support you in this journey and can help you as a teen facing an unplanned pregnancy. We can educate you on all your options, and connect you to the kind of resources that will help you in this journey. We can help you with all your questions and inquiries. Call Raleigh 919.833.0096, Durham 919.251.9444 and Chapel Hill 919.537.8220 to schedule a free, confidential appointment today.