How to Handle Teen Pregnancy

Teenage pregnancy is one of the hardest things to deal with as a parent. I know from the experience of being a pregnant teenager. I was fifteen when I gave birth to a beautiful girl. It was a day that brought about a lot of emotions. Now, I was responsible for a young life. I would either make it or break it at this point. I was fortunate that I my daughter's fraternal grandparents and a little support from my family. They were both a God sent. I lived with my daughter’s fraternal Grandparents for a few years. It wasn't an easy experience, but I'm thankful for their love and support.

My pregnancy came with a lot of pain and shame. The reaction of my family was the hardest part. I felt ashamed about what I had done. I wanted to hide behind all the walls in town, besides the Pepsi Machine I hid behind one night. The day I told my family was one of my lowest points in life. I wish they would have been more supportive and not treated me like I was the carrying the plague.

So, what would you do if your child is pregnant or his girlfriend is pregnant?

A few tips in dealing with teen pregnancy:

• Don't make your child feel shameful, they already feel it without you adding to it.

• Don't throw them out; they need you more now then ever.

• Be realistic about the situation. Have a heart to heart talk once you've got over the shock.

• Don't threaten the child or force them into a situation they will one day regret.

• Let the decision of how to deal with pregnancy be your child's. You don't have to live with it. After all, they've made an adult decision, so now it's time to grow up.

• Most of all, tell them you love them and always will no mater what they do. I told my daughter this recently and NO she's not pregnant (Thank God).

• Don’t force them to Marry. The divorce rate for pregnant teens is high.

• Tell them it's very important to complete school because they are now responsible for a living human being that has needs and wants.

• Most of all remember to breath, everything will work out eventually.
  

Until Next Time :)