FAQ about Teenage Pregnancy

Answers to FAQ about Teen Pregnancy

Regardless of the circumstances surrounding a teen pregnancy, having access to accurate information is critical. Whether a pregnant teen plans to have an abortion, place her baby up for adoption, or tackle the challenge of motherhood, it’s important to have the knowledge necessary to make an informed decision about an unplanned pregnancy.

What is the best way for a pregnant teen to tell her parents? This question is perhaps one of the most common FAQ about teen pregnancy. For many pregnant teens, the hardest part of the process is telling their family the news. However, you may be surprised by the reaction you receive. Pregnant teens often report that their parents were much more supportive than they had anticipated. If you are pregnant and afraid to tell your parents, try asking a trusted aunt, older sibling, or family friend to be there for the discussion. You may also find it helpful to write your parents a letter that explains the situation and how you plan to handle the pregnancy.

Visit the Mom, Dad, I’m Pregnant… website for more tips on how to tell your parents you are pregnant.

Can a pregnant teen get an abortion without parental consent? The answer to this question depends on where you live. In the United States, the laws regarding abortions for minors vary. Some states mandate parental consent, while others only require that a related adult such as an aunt or older sibling give consent. Judicial bypass laws are also available in states with parental consent requirements, in case a teen believes she can’t safely obtain parental consent.

The Center for Reproductive Rights has additional information for people interested in state abortion laws.

Can a teen be forced to have an abortion by her parents? Legally, abortion is considered a personal choice that only the expectant mother can make. A pregnant teen can not be forced to have an abortion by her parents or the father of the baby.

If you are a pregnant teen who feels she is being pressured into having an abortion, Option Line can provide free counseling and support to help you through this difficult time.

If a pregnant teen decides to place her baby up for adoption, how can she be sure her child is going to a good home? Adoption agencies conduct careful screenings of prospective families to make sure they are committed to raising a child. In addition, the birth mother can meet with the adoptive parents to discuss any concerns that she may have. Contrary to popular belief, adoption does not necessarily mean the birth mother has no contact with her child. If you choose an open adoption arrangement, you may be able to receive letters, phone calls, or photos to keep you informed of your child’s progress. Even if you opt for a closed adoption, you can register with an adoption registry to make sure your child is able to contact you as an adult if he/she chooses.

For additional information about adoption as a teen pregnancy alternative, visit the Gravity Teen website.

If a pregnant teen decides to keep her baby, is she eligible for government assistance? Teen moms are eligible to receive food stamps, Medicaid, and Temporary Aid for Needy Families if they meet certain eligibility criteria. Generally, this means that you must be currently attending high school or earning your GED. You must also be willing to pursue child support from your baby’s father.

TeenParents.org has additional information about federal and state welfare laws in regards to pregnant and parenting teens.

Additional Information

For additional answers to FAQ about teen pregnancy, check out the following websites:

• National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy
• Advocates for Youth
• Teen Pregnancy and Birth Defects
• US Teenage Pregnancy Statistics National and State Trends
• Our Health, Our Futures
• When Your Teen is Having a Baby