It was the most nerve-wracking three minutes of her life. As she opened her eyes to check the test, her heart dropped. Breathing felt impossible. In a rush, she ripped open the instructions that came with the test, confirming the truth she already sensed—she was pregnant. Resting her head against the bathroom stall, tears welled up in her eyes. Just then, the bell rang, signaling the end of lunch. Time to head to class. But all that echoed in her mind was, “I’m only 16…”
May is National Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month, a perfect opportunity to shine a light on the unique hurdles young, expectant mothers encounter. Teenage pregnancy can bring up a whirlwind of feelings, from practical concerns like, “How will I finish school?” and “What will my parents think?” to deeper questions such as, “Should I even continue with this pregnancy?” or “Have I already harmed my baby?”
In navigating these tough questions, it’s no wonder that teens are especially vulnerable to misinformation from various sources—be it the internet, peers, or social media. As a certified genetic counselor, this reality greatly worries me—not just for the mother, but also for her baby. When a young mom-to-be finds her way to me, whether it’s through a phone call, an email, or in my office, I feel a sense of relief; she has discovered a reliable source of support to help address these crucial, potentially life-altering questions.
Our organization, a part of the nonprofit Organization of Teratology Information Specialists (OTIS), provides evidence-based information to mothers, healthcare providers, and the general public about potential risks from exposures during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Each inquiry we receive is meticulously researched by professionals like me. From concerns about bug spray to substance use, we’ve tackled a wide range of topics! So, what are some common questions I often hear from young moms?
Common Questions from Young Moms
Alcohol: “Is it safe to drink any alcohol while pregnant?” The answer is no—there’s no safe amount. Babies exposed to significant alcohol, such as binge drinking, are at risk for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), which can lead to birth defects and developmental issues.
Cigarettes: “Why shouldn’t I smoke while pregnant?” Cigarette smoke contains over 4,000 harmful chemicals. These toxins can cross the placenta, affecting the oxygen and nutrients your baby receives. Heavy smoking is linked to various risks, including preterm birth and low birth weight.
Marijuana: “Is it okay to smoke marijuana during pregnancy?” There’s conflicting info out there. While some studies show no direct link to birth defects, the evidence isn’t definitive. Regular marijuana use has been associated with cognitive and behavioral problems in children.
Methamphetamines: “I’ve used meth in the past. Is it safe to use a bit now?” The answer is a firm no. Meth use can lead to miscarriage and withdrawal symptoms in newborns. There’s not enough data to determine its effects on birth defects, but heavy use raises concerns about learning difficulties.
The path ahead will undoubtedly bring more questions for a young parent, but having access to personalized risk assessments about exposures during pregnancy and breastfeeding can be the first step in building a vital support network.
Jennifer, a genetic counselor, works closely with expecting parents to provide guidance and clarity regarding their concerns. If you want to learn more about parenting resources, check out our blog on parental leave for single parents. And if you’re considering at-home insemination, places like Make a Mom offer comprehensive kits to assist you in this journey.
In summary, young mothers face numerous challenges when navigating pregnancy. With misinformation prevalent, it’s crucial to seek out trustworthy resources for accurate information. Prioritizing knowledge can empower these young women as they embark on their parenting journey.