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Teenage pregnancy

Research shows that teenage girls are less likely to become pregnant if they are able to talk about sex openly with their parents.

Talk about sex

You may talk to your child about waiting to have sex, contraception, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and the effects of having a child while they are still at school. There are many ways you can help:

• Start to talk generally to your child about sex and relationships from an early age - naming body parts for example
• Find out what education your child is getting in school about sex and relationships
• Provide your child with information and advice on the subjects not covered at school
• Offer to go with your teenager to the doctor or sexual health clinic to discuss any issues about contraception
• Make sure your teenager knows about STIs, and knows how to stay safe
• Support your teenager as they deal with the emotions of a first intimate relationship
• Try to accept that your teenager will probably not have the same values as you when it comes to sex, but that such differences are an inevitable part of your child growing up into a healthy adult

If your child is already pregnant

If your child comes to you to say they are pregnant or that their girlfriend is pregnant, your first reactions may be shock and anger. But the most important thing to do is stay calm, talk and support the teenage mother in whatever decisions she makes.

Although you can give her support and information on her options, she is the person who has to live with her decision.

The first step is for the teenager to see her GP or young people’s service. They will confirm the pregnancy and tell her about services in the area for pregnant teenagers.

Hospitals and health visitors often have services for teenage mothers beyond the routine antenatal care that will be offered. Some services, such as Brook, also have counsellors who will be able to explore how she feels about her pregnancy and give impartial information on her options.

School

Some schools encourage pregnant pupils to continue their studies; others do not. Talk to the school and see what their policy is. There are other ways of learning, like home tuition. Contact the Education Department for further help.