Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Frequently Asked Questions of a Teen Mom

I get asked the same questions over and over again, whether they're from teenagers or adults. I figure I'd go ahead and get these out in the open. If you comment on this entry with a question, I'll add it to the post and answer it there. :]

Did you get pregnant on purpose?
No. I was on birth control, surprisingly enough. But I'd fallen behind and missed a few days. I hated the BC I was on because it would make me nauseated and make me wake up with excruciatingly painful muscle spasms in the middle of the night. Anyway, I did not plan on getting pregnant.

Do you receive a lot of discrimination because of your age as a mother?
Not really... but I'm always cautious about it. I was kind of anxious to start going to church again because I was terrified of being shunned or treated rudely. Luckily I picked the right church for me and I was readily accepted and felt right at home. I'd also heard horror stories of delivery nurses being rude to young mothers during and after the delivery. I was lucky there, too. But some just can't see past my age and group me with the teen moms who aren't so motivated and selfless and send me hate mail and such. Luckily, those are few and far between.

What is your opinion of teenage mothers in general?
It really depends. I think that not every woman is cut out to be a mother, no matter what her age. Some teenagers never go through the drinking/partying stage and adapt perfectly to parenthood. Others just can't let their personal lives go to take on the responsibility [and blessing] of raising a child. A female has the potential to be a good or bad mother, no matter what her age. There are plenty of adults that are terrible mothers.

Would you go back and change anything?
Absolutely not. I love the life I'm leading right now. I love my daughter and how close her birth has brought me with my family. I wouldn't be in college and have graduated early if it weren't for her. She's the best thing that has ever and will ever happen to me. :]

Would you recommend getting pregnant to teenage girls?
No. It's extremely difficult, especially if you're dealing with issues with the father. Some girls' parents shun them for getting pregnant, leaving them homeless and without financial support. I am very fortunate to have the aid of my parents. I have no idea where Athena and I would be if it weren't for them. In my opinion, a teenager's top priority should be finishing high school, and that is made very complicated with an infant. Enjoy staying out late, sleeping in, being with friends and having money while you can, girls. Motherhood isn't for everyone.


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