3 Ways to Handle Teen Pregnancy

1. Discuss Options

Though you are likely to be intensely angry, sad and scared when you first find out, remember your teen is experiencing the same emotions. It is not the time to punish or lash out. Instead you need to discuss the available options, and do so with both of the affected families if possible. You'll want to cover all the pros and cons of raising the baby, putting the child up for adoption or terminating the pregnancy with an abortion. Allow everyone involved to state their preferences while assuring the girl that her final decision will be supported.

2. Develop a Plan of Action

If the teen decides to abort, parents need to ensure the procedure will be performed by a qualified physician in an appropriate medical facility. The pregnant girl should see a counselor both before and after the procedure and may need follow-up counseling sessions as well. If the choice is adoption, you will have to help your teen locate the right organization and decide whether or not the adoption should be open or closed. Finally, if the baby will be born and kept in the family, a plan for taking care of the child financially and otherwise must be hashed out between the two families.

3. Prepare for the Aftermath of Teen Pregnancy

Issues such as sexual activity and birth control should be addressed along with any other concerns. You should not attempt to pretend it never happened if the teenager has had an abortion or put the baby up for adoption. This will be detrimental to the teenager who has to face the aftermath of an unintended pregnancy and needs the unconditional support of family.