Teen Pregnancy and Birth

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One part of prenatal care is attending classes where expectant mothers can learn about having a healthy pregnancy and delivery, breast-feeding and the basics of caring for a new baby. These classes are offered at most hospitals, medical centers, schools, and colleges in your area. Many places offer classes that are designed especially for expectant teen moms.

Just about everything you eat, drink, inhale or ingest during pregnancy will be passed on to your baby. So you want to make sure you’re only putting healthy foods in your body. And, you want to protect your baby by staying away from dangerous stuff, like cigarettes, alcohol and drugs- which can cause birth defects and even cause you to lose your baby.

You may be asking yourself, “What about school?” About 40,000 students drop out each year because of pregnancy, but not every teen does and you don’t need to either. Girls who complete high school are more likely to have good jobs and enjoy more success in their lives. If possible, finish high school now rather than trying to return later.

Ask your school counselor or an adult you trust for information about programs and classes in your community for pregnant teens. If your baby is due during the school year, arrangements can be made for home schooling and tutoring. Some states in the US have programs where teachers can come to your home to teach. Some high schools even have child-care centers on campus, for after your baby is born. Many teens have a family member or friend care for their baby while they’re in school. If none of these options work for you, night school or testing to receive your GED (General Educational Development) may be more feasible.