Dear Anne
I'm only 11 and I'm pregnant. What should I do? Lisa
Dear Lisa
I'm sorry you find yourself in this fix. You're unsure about what to do and I expect you're scared of how your parents might react, not to mention teachers, friends and others. You're going to go through some challenging times but you can get help and support and you will come through the other side.
The first thing is to ring the Brook Advisory Service helpline on 0808 802 1234. Their website is at www.brook.org.uk/content/Default.asp This is a service providing free, confidential advice on sexual and pregnancy matters to young people up to the age of 25. They can give you a pregnancy test which will confirm whether you are pregnant and they can talk to you about what choices you have. If you are indeed expecting a baby, your choices come down to keeping the child, giving birth to it and arranging an adoption, or having an abortion . In whichever cased they will guide you to decide what is best for you, and help you understand and deal with the consequences, both the practical ones and the emotional ones. They can also advise on safe sex. The website has a lot of easy-to-understand information and a very good search engine.
You will also need to talk to your parents, and the Brook can help you as to the best way to deal with this. Although your parents will probably be very angry and upset, in most cases parents do end up being a great support to young mums and their babies. You need not fear being homeless because in the unlikely event that your parents don't want you at their place, there are safe and supportive units for pregnant girls and (eventually) for their babies, or you may be placed with a loving, caring family who will support you and the child if you keep it. The baby's father will also need to know because he has a moral and financial responsibility towards the child.
If you decide to have the child, there are special education units for pregnant schoolgirls where you'll be able to have ordinary lessons plus guidance about childcare. Young women who've had babies while at school often go on to do well in their general education, get a good degree and make a great life for themselves and the child.
Whatever you decide, you need to take action as soon as possible. I wish you courage and the best of health. Good luck.
