Facing a pregnancy can be frightening for any teenager. There are a lot of unexpected issues the teen will face as she makes decisions that will affect her and her unborn child. Pregnant teens not only need to prepare for a lifestyle with baby, but also learn how to take care of themselves before the child is born.
Prenatal Care
Whether the young teen mother decides to keep her child in her life or not, she still needs to give the child adequate prenatal care. Prenatal care involves visiting an obstetrician or gynecologist who will monitor the health of mother and baby. This type of medical care should begin as soon as the mother suspects she may be pregnant. The OB/GYN will perform blood work on the mother to make sure she is healthy so she can have a normal pregnancy. A physical examination will determine if the mother is gaining the proper weight and if the baby is growing in a healthy manner. Performing an ultrasound determines the exact age and gestation of the unborn baby and detects any abnormalities or medical problems.
Education
An important part of being a pregnant mom is to be able to support the child. One way to assure that the mother is taking responsibility for her new lifestyle is to stay in school while she is pregnant. This could be an alternative high school or a college study program that offers online accredited classes. Unless medically unable to do so, completing as much education as possible while the child is still in utero will save time and money on daycare.
Parenthood Options
Not all pregnant teen mothers will decide to keep their baby. Some may decide to give up their parental rights through adoption or to another family member. Making a decision like this is life changing. Speaking with professional counselors while pregnant will help the mother make the right decision. Locate a Planned Parenthood or social service organization, and set up an appointment to discuss what your options are if you feel you are unable to care for your new baby.
Parenting Classes
Before the baby is born, a teen mother should attend prenatal and parenting classes. This will help her be prepared for her labor and delivery. Breathing techniques and what to do when contractions become painful are important things for new mothers-to-be to understand. Classes may also discuss medical emergencies such as having to prepare for a cesarean section to deliver the baby safely. Parenting classes may also talk about how to care for an infant when you first bring the baby home from the hospital.
Government Assistance
Some pregnant teen mothers may need financial assistance with their medical care, housing and feeding their new baby. The Woman, Infant and Child program helps keep mothers-to-be and babies healthy by supplementing their current nutrition with free food such as dairy, juice, cereal, eggs and whole grains. Welfare agencies may help with housing assistance, financial support and food stamps, based on the teen mom's financial situation, if she is considered homeless or lives below the poverty level.
