getting

pregnant

Sexual intercourse can lead to pregnancy, even if you are using contraception. So if you are worried about being pregnant, talk to someone you trust or telephone our helpline for help. Read the section on your menstrual cycle first.

You can get pregnant at any stage during your menstrual cycle.

How do you know if you are pregnant?

If you have had sexual intercourse and have missed a period, your breasts may be more swollen or tingly than usual, your vaginal discharge has changed, or you need to pee more often, you may be pregnant. You can tell for sure by having a pregnancy test. Take a parent or friend with you when you are having the test. You may need the support.

Pregnancy tests

If you are pregnant you can have a pregnancy test at a GP's or at a pregnancy counselling clinic. You can also buy home testing kits from the chemists. SHC & YHS provide free pregnancy testing.

If you are pregnant?

If you are pregnant you may be scared of telling your parents. Although parents may be angry when they first discover you are pregnant, most are very supportive. If you are worried about telling your parent(s), you may find it helpful to talk to a trusted adult friend or a SHC Helpline before you talk to your parent(s).

Keeping your baby

You may decide to continue with your pregnancy and get married, parent alone, live with the baby's father or have your parents look after it. You might also consider fostering or adoption for your baby. Whatever option you take, it may be a difficult decision and you should make sure that you make the one that is most comfortable for you. There are teen pregnancy support agencies in many areas. Contact your local HSE office for information.

Folic Acid

As many pregnancies are unplanned it is often advised that women of child bearing age take folic acid which helps pregnant women to produce a healthy baby.

Abortion

Abortion means that the pregnancy is ended by a medical procedure. Abortion is not legal in Ireland and women who decide to have an abortion must travel outside of Ireland to have one. Some agencies can give you counselling and information on how to contact a clinic to arrange one. Abortion is a very emotional subject and it is very important that you go to a reputable agency for help. Text ''list'' to 50444

pregnancy

and birth

• If you are pregnant you should tell your parents and contact your doctor, if you can.
• It is best to cut out alcohol, cigarettes and any other drugs you are taking that can harm your baby.
• Your general health and your diet are even more important now to help produce a healthy baby.
• During the first three months you may feel sick and a bit tired.
• Most women feel very healthy and energetic during the second three months.
• By the third three months you will probably begin to feel the size and weight of the baby and may feel tired and uncomfortable.
• It can be helpful and rewarding if the father is involved in the pregnancy and birth of the baby, where possible.