Dont Clean The Cats Litter Box
Pet your furry friend all you like and wash your hands afterward but dont clean a cats litter box.
Feline waste is filled with millions of bacteria and parasites. One in particular, Toxoplasma gondii , is particularly dangerous to expecting mothers.
If you contract it, you may never know until you begin having complications with your pregnancy. A miscarriage or stillbirth is possible. Babies who contract this parasite may face serious health problems, including seizures and mental disabilities.
Sign Up For Antenatal Classes
Antenatal classes are a way to help you learn more about pregnancy, labour and birth, as well as presenting you with an opportunity to get to know other expectant parents in your area.
The NHS runs weekly classes, starting from when you’re around 30-32 weeks pregnant. You can attend with your birth partner or on your own, and in some areas there are set classes available for if you’re single, a teenager or if English isn’t your first language. Your GP, midwife or health visitor can give you more information.
In the height of the pandemic, these classes were virtual but as restrictions have relaxed, in person sessions have been reintroduced in many places although virtual ones may still be available if you’re concerned about the virus, are extremely vulnerable or self-isolating.
Private classes, including those run by the National Childbirth Trust , are usually more comprehensive and held in smaller groups. Although they usually start when you’re around 25 weeks pregnant, book as early as you can in your pregnancy as they can fill up quickly.
Read more about NHS vs NCT antenatal classes to help you make up your mind.
Things To Do This Week For A Healthy Pregnancy
You must also keep in mind that any additional calories you consume during pregnancy should be nutritious. The American Pregnancy Association advises that you add an additional 300 calories per day to your diet. These extra calories should come from foods like:
- lean meats
- vegetables
- whole grains
These foods will provide you with extra nutrients like protein, calcium, folic acid, and other vitamins. These nutrients will help provide your body with what it needs during pregnancy.
If you were at a normal weight before you became pregnant, aim to gain 25 to 35 pounds during pregnancy. During your second trimester, you may gain a pound a week. Eat a variety of healthy foods and limit your focus on the scale.
To determine a healthy diet while pregnant, the United States Department of Agriculture offers a Daily Food Plan for Moms that will help you develop a healthy eating plan. You also want to make sure to avoid foods that are not safe to consume while pregnant, and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. The Office on Womens Health provides guidelines for preparing and consuming certain foods when pregnant.
With a healthy eating plan in place you can enjoy foods that give you and your baby plenty of nutrition. This plan can also help you make smart choices if you are eating out.
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What Should I Do Now
If you decide to continue with the pregnancy, youll be able to get antenatal care , whether youre planning to be a parent or choose adoption. To start your antenatal care, you can visit your general practice , or register with one. Or you may be able to go directly to a midwife at your nearest maternity unit.To find your nearest maternity unit see www.which.co.uk/birth-choice
As part of your antenatal care, the doctor or midwife can talk to you about:
- healthy eating and exercise
- whether any medicines youre taking are unsafe during pregnancy
- getting advice and tests for sexually transmitted infections.
If you have a medical condition, such as epilepsy or diabetes, talk to your doctor or midwife as soon as possible because you may need special care.
If youre taking medication, its important that you continue to take this and seek advice from a doctor or nurse as soon as possible.
Things To Know About Having An Abortion At 15 Years Old
Another option you may be considering if you are pregnant at 15 is terminating your pregnancy.
For some young women, abortion is the right decision it prevents them from having to carry a pregnancy to term and allows them to continue working toward their education and life goals with no long-term effects.
Before you decide that abortion is or is not right for you as a pregnant 15-year-old, there are a few things to consider:
1. Abortion can be expensive.
An abortion procedure can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars, especially if you are not using your parents insurance.
This can be cost-prohibitive for those who are pregnant at 15, so talk with a local family planning clinic such as Planned Parenthood for information on fees.
2. You may need parental permission for the procedure.
Depending on your states laws, you may need parental permission or need to give your parents notice before you can proceed with an abortion.
Again, a local family planning clinic can tell you more about the abortion requirements in your state.
3. You may experience feelings of grief and loss.
Thats why its so important that you learn all you can about this option before choosing it and are aware of all its pros and cons.
4. You are the only one who can make this irrevocable decision.
You always have the option of choosing to parent your child or place them for adoption after birth.
Read Also: Are Kiehl’s Products Safe For Pregnancy
How Does Teenage Pregnancy Affect Teen Fathers
Fathering a child as a teenager can be a frightening and life-changing event. Teen fathers dont have to worry about the health implications of pregnancy and childbirth, but they could face similar difficulties staying in school and earning a living.
State laws vary on the legal age for people to have sexual intercourse.
Arrest or legal action against teens who are sexually active can have devastating effects. A young man may be required to register as a sex offender if he has reached the legal age and his partner has not .
Tactics 10th Anniversary Edition: A Game Plan For Discussing Your Christian Convictions
In a world increasingly indifferent to Christian truth, followers of Christ need to be equipped to communicate with those who do not speak their language or accept their source of authority. In Tactics, 10th Anniversary Edition, Gregory Koukl demonstrates how to artfully regain control of conversations, keeping them moving forward in constructive ways through thoughtful diplomacy. Youll learn how to stop challengers in their tracks and how to turn the tables on questions or provocative statements. Most important, youll learn how to get people thinking about Jesus.
Also Check: How To Help With Restless Legs During Pregnancy
How Do I Protect My Baby If I Have Covid
If you have COVID-19, you can still care for your baby, but you’ll need to follow some guidelines to protect your newborn.
Wash your hands often with soap and water or hand sanitiser especially before touching your baby or any equipment that will come into contact with your baby, such as bottles or a breast pump.
Wear a surgical mask whenever you’re near your baby. Dont re-use masks and dispose of them immediately after use. Dont touch the front of the mask when you are wearing it and wash your hands before putting the mask on and when you remove it.
Sneeze or cough into your elbow and wash your hands immediately. If you happen to cough or sneeze on your breast, wash the area with soap and water before breastfeeding or expressing milk.
Clean and disinfect surfaces and feeding equipment regularly.
If you have COVID-19, you shouldnt have any visitors to your home. Once you have finished isolating, limit the number of visitors to your home and ask that they wear a mask and be fully vaccinated.
If you are fully vaccinated, you will have passed on some antibodies before birth and while breastfeeding that provide some protection for your baby.
Navigating A Toxic Culture With Your Daughter
As a pediatrician, Dr. Meg Meeker has seen thousands of girls come through her office through the years. They struggle with eating issues, sexual identity, social mediaand many other challenges in this toxic culture. Dr. Meeker will encourage parents to invest love and time in their daughters and develop their character to give them the best opportunity for a bright future, all rooted in a spiritual foundation. The discussion also includes healthy feminism vs. toxic feminism
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Your Unplanned Pregnancy Options
Finding out youre pregnant at 15 years old can feel like your world is crumbling. We can help.
- Adoption for your pregnancy at 15 years old not only gives your child a chance at having a life but helps you stay on track with your dreams and goals.
- We protect your privacy when choosing adoption.
- Adoption changes the lives of a hopeful adoptive couple dreaming of building their family.
- You’re in control of every choice in the adoption process, including choosing the family, how much post-adoption contact you want to maintain, and more.
If youre 15, youre probably in high school, dreaming about upcoming dances and worried about all the normal challenges of being a teenager getting your first job, dealing with your first loves and working through changing friendships.
If youve come to this article, you may be scared about what your future holds. Having a baby at 15 probably wasnt part of the plan, and it may feel like your life is over with this surprise. But, know this: You are not the first pregnant 15-year-old, and you will not be the last. At this point, its all about figuring out what your options are and deciding which one is best for you.
There are probably a few thoughts running through your head right now: Should I get an abortion? Should I give up my baby? Should I keep my baby? Im 15 how am I supposed to make this decision?
For guidance in your situation, please call 1-800-ADOPTION.
Loving Your Spouse Through The Seasons Of Marriage
Debra Fileta has identified the four seasons of marriage that correspond with our natural seasons spring , summer , fall , and winter . In this interview, she will help couples better understand the four seasons of healthy relationships, what to expect during each one, and how to carefully navigate them for a stronger marriage.
Read Also: Is Unisom Safe For Pregnancy
Special Concerns Of Pregnant Teens
Even though most teen girls are biologically able to produce healthy babies, whether they do often depends on whether they receive adequate medical care especially in those critical early months of pregnancy.
Teens who receive proper medical care and take care of themselves are more likely to have healthy babies. Those who don’t receive medical care are at greater risk for:
- fetal death
- labor and delivery complications
- low birth-weight infant
The earlier your teen gets prenatal care, the better her chances for a healthy pregnancy, so bring her to the doctor as soon as possible after finding out she’s pregnant. If you need help finding medical care, check with social service groups in the community or at your child’s school.
Your teen’s health care provider can tell her what to expect during her pregnancy, how to take care of herself and her growing baby, and how to prepare for life as a parent.
Some topics that will be addressed include:
Raising A Strong Daughter In A Toxic Culture: 11 Steps To Keep Her Happy Healthy And Safe
Meg Meeker has been a pediatrician for more than thirty years, is a mother and a grandmother, and has seen it all. She knows what makes for strong, happy, healthy young womenand what puts our daughters at risk. Combining that experience with her famous common sense, she explains the eleven steps that will help your daughterwhether shes a toddler or a troubled teento achieve her full human potential.
Recommended Reading: How To Avoid Hair Loss During Pregnancy
What To Do About Your Teen Pregnancy
So youve seen two lines, but what now?
- Figure out your estimated due date and how many weeks you are based on your last period. Using an online calculator, going to a pregnancy center or scheduling a doctor appointment can help.
- Discover what your baby looks like. Its amazing how quickly babies form!
- Talk to others. Surround yourself with support from your family, friends, teachers and even online groups. Online was where God brought new perspectives and a safe place to ask other teen moms and birth moms questions on my journeys.
- Find a healthcare provider and make your first prenatal appointment. Research the difference between OBGYN and midwives to see which model of care fits your desires.
- Take care of your body. Sleep when you need to , eat healthier and nutrient-rich foods, drink lots of water, quit smoking and drinking and begin taking prenatal vitamins.
If you are facing an unexpected pregnancy and looking for options, there are free, confidential services available.
- Click on MyChoiceNetwork.org and find a clinic nearby.
- Visit OptionLine.org. They can chat, talk by calling 800-712-HELP or respond to texts through Helpline sent to 313131 at any time.
You are not alone. Connect with caring, confidential professionals to get all of your options.
What Support Is There For Pregnant Teenagers
If you decide to continue with your pregnancy, there are a wide range of services to support you during pregnancy and after you have had your baby.
You can get support and advice from:
- Brook visit your nearest Brook service for free confidential advice if you’re under 25, or use the Ask Brook online service
- Family Lives visit the website or call 0808 800 2222 for support for families, including young parents
- Tommy’s visit this website led by midwives for the latest information for parents-to-be
- Family Nurse Partnership a family nurse may be able to visit your home, if you’re young parents, to support you from early pregnancy until your child is 2
- Shelter a national housing charity that can advise you about housing options and housing benefits for young parents visit their website or call them on 0808 800 4444
If you’re pregnant and on your own, it’s important there are people you can share your feelings with who can offer you support.
Read Also: Can I Get Pregnant At 46
Sharing Your Faith With Grace And Purpose
You can confidently and lovingly share your faithyou just need to learn some new tactics to do so! In this Focus on the Family Daily Broadcast, apologist Greg Koukl outlines the Columbo tactic of asking questions, the self-defeating argument tactic to find holes in your opponents arguments, and other specific methods for engaging in faith-building conversations with others. Greg pulls from his over 30 years of experience debating atheists and agnostics to help you share your faith with grace and truth.
Giving Up Sugar Tasting God’s Goodness
As a latchkey kid, Wendy Speake turned to sugar for comfort. Every Friday, she would pedal to the candy show and use her allowance to fill her bag with candy. And one day, when she was older and a mom of three young boys, she came to realize that she was still pedaling away from her stress and using sugar as comfort, instead of turning to Jesus. She was joyless, worn out, tired, and in need of a change. In this interview, Wendy will challenge Christians to take 40 days to focus on fasting from something they turn to instead of Jesus for comfort. She invited people to break free from a dependence on sugar and taste the goodness of God.
Recommended Reading: What To Do When Wanting To Get Pregnant
Embracing Your Role As A Spouse
As a spouse, you have three roles to playa friend, a partner, and a lover. On this one-day Focus on the Family broadcast, Pastor Kevin A. Thompson explores those different roles and challenges you to live them out by investing emotionally, physically, and mentally in your relationship. As friends, he suggests we learn to play and laugh together. As partners, he equips us with solid ways to handle conflict and communication. As lovers, he offers some thoughts on how to bring back the sizzle. He shares five keys to saving your marriage: humility, respect, mercy, communication, and resilience. Youll be encouraged to intentionally invest in your marriage.
What Should I Do If I Test Positive To Covid
If you are pregnant and have tested positive to COVID-19, you should contact your maternity care providers, like your doctor or midwife, immediately. They will be able to assess your condition and advise you on the best way to access your regular maternity care while you are isolating with COVID-19.
Also Check: Can I Get Pregnant On My Fertile Days
How Does Teenage Pregnancy Affect Teen Mothers
Teens are at a higher risk for pregnancy-related high blood pressure and its complications than average age mothers. Risks for the baby include premature birth and low birth weight. Preeclampsia can also harm the kidneys or even be fatal for mother or baby.
Pregnant teens also have a higher chance of becoming anemic. Anemia is a reduction in the number of red blood cells . This can make you feel weak and tired and can affect your babys development.
Giving birth in the United States is safer than ever, but its still more dangerous for a teen than for a woman 20 or older. According to the World Health Organization Trusted Source , complications during pregnancy or childbirth are the leading cause of death globally for girls ages 15 to 19.
If you get pregnant as a teen, you might feel frightened and worried about telling your family and friends. Not talking to someone and not getting the help and support you need, can make you feel more isolated and depressed. This can lead to problems in home and at school.
Many pregnant teens drop out of school, and some never complete their education. That means a lot of mothers who get pregnant as teenagers live in poverty.
Women who first got pregnant as teens are more likely to have more than one child. About
A healthy pregnancy lasts 40 weeks. A baby thats delivered before 37 weeks of pregnancy is
premature. Teen mothers are to give birth to premature babies.
