by Belinda Jolly

Created on: October 23, 2008

Being a new mother is a challenge to any female. To a teen who may still be in school, keeping a baby can be a difficult choice. First, you need to have the mindset to go through the pregnancy, even when there are outside forces at work to dissuade you. Next you learn the responsibilty of seeking sound medical attention, being sure to follow doctor's orders during the pregnancy to help insure a safe and healthy baby and delivery. Taking prenatal vitamins is very important as well as abstaining from alcohol and drug use. Get at least 8 hours of sleep per night, have some type of physical excercise daily, and eat well balanced meals. Try not to involve yourself in arguments and keep a positive attitude during the pregnancy.

If you have a mother standing with you in your decision to keep your baby, then you owe it to her to listen to her advice on whatever issues may arise. She has experience in this matter and will be very helpful if you give her a chance.

You will need maternity clothes so that your expanding waistline can feel comfortable. Remember that these clothes will only be used during the pregnancy, so it is wise to spend as little as possible on them. There are alternatives to buying new ones such as consignment shops or yard sale items that will save you money that you can use for other expenses. The first three months of your pregnancy you will be excited about fitting into maternity clothes. The next three months you will be filling them out quite well and during the last three months you will be looking forward to getting back into your regular clothes. Your weight will go up and you will find after the birth that your old clothes may not fit for a few weeks. This is normal, so don't despair.

You will need diapers, t-shirts, onesies, gowns, sleepers, blankets, sheets, burp cloths, etc. This can be costly. You will need a good income to be able to meet the baby's needs from day one. Sometimes a friend will hold a baby shower in your honor and this will help get ready for the baby.

Plan ahead of time to have someone go with you into the labor and delivery room. They will be there for support, basically. You may find yourself in labor for hours and having someone with you will make you feel more comfortable and not so alone. They will be able to hold your hand or help you count the minutes between contractions, etc.

There will be pain, no doubt about it, yet at the same time you will remember that soon your new baby will be in your arms and all of the hard

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