Teenage pregnancies: practical health, medication, and support tips

Every year many teenagers find out they're pregnant and have to make quick choices about health, medicines, and support. If this is you or someone you care about, the good news: acting fast improves outcomes. Below are clear, practical steps to protect your health and the baby's while you make a plan.

Quick medical steps if you think you’re pregnant

Get a pregnancy test and call a clinic today. Community health centers, school clinics, and Planned Parenthood offer free or low-cost tests and counseling. If the test is positive, schedule prenatal care within the first 8 weeks if possible. Early prenatal visits check for anemia, infections, and chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.

Start a prenatal vitamin with folic acid right away—400 to 800 micrograms daily lowers the risk of neural tube defects. Ask your clinician about labs and an ultrasound. Also get screened for STIs; untreated infections can harm pregnancy and are treatable.

Medications, safety, and where to get help

Some medicines can harm a developing baby. Avoid isotretinoin (brand names include Tretiva, Accutane) — it causes severe birth defects. If you take antidepressants like Prozac (fluoxetine), or other long-term meds, don’t stop suddenly. Call your clinician to review risks and safer options. Many articles on GoodRxMedicine explain specific drugs and alternatives.

Over-the-counter pain relief: acetaminophen is generally preferred for short-term use; NSAIDs like ibuprofen are typically avoided late in pregnancy. For allergies, first-generation antihistamines may cause drowsiness—ask a provider which antihistamine is safest for you. Never start or stop prescription drugs without medical advice.

If cost or access is a worry, ask the clinic about low-cost prescription programs, patient assistance, or safe online pharmacies. Use verified pharmacies and check for a licensed prescriber requirement. Our site helps explain how to compare options and avoid scams.

Think about immediate next steps: confirm pregnancy, choose prenatal care, review all current medicines with a health professional, and find local support. Emotional support matters—talk to a trusted adult, counselor, or teen support group.

Birth control after a pregnancy is also important. Long-acting methods like implants or IUDs are safe and effective for teens and can be started immediately after delivery. Emergency contraception is available if you had unprotected sex in early pregnancy; talk to a clinician about your options.

Nutrition and daily habits matter: eat balanced meals with protein, whole grains, fruits, and veggies; aim for around 300 extra calories in second and third trimesters; avoid alcohol and smoking entirely; limit caffeine to under 200 mg daily. Mental health: pregnancy can be scary—ask for counseling, postpartum planning, or peer support groups. Know your rights: minors can often get confidential care; ask the clinic about consent rules in your state. Plan transport to visits ahead.

If you need local resources, search for "teen pregnancy clinic" or "community health center" with your city name, or call your school nurse. Acting early, asking questions, and getting reliable care makes a real difference for teen pregnancies.