Deciding to keep the baby can be one of the most wonderful experiences.  Once you find that you have your parents support or the courage to know that you can do it yourself, your pregnancy turns from "crisis" to beautiful.  Keeping the baby is a serious decision that will affect the rest of your life.  Nothing is more wonderful than knowing you are bringing a child into the world.  At this point your life will change dramatically.  You will have to make arrangements with doctors in order to get all prenatal care you need.  Medicaid or free clinics are always an option if your pregnancy is not covered by your insurance of if you do not have insurance.  Also find out how to get free medical coverage.  As soon as you become pregnant it's important to follow these basic guidelines:

*Take your prenatal vitamin and extra folic acid

*Make sure you are getting the right amount of calcium for you and your baby

*Remember you are eating for two (which means 300 extra calories per day).  Have a healthy diet including protein, carbohydrates, fats, and a lot of water!

*Stay active if you are fit and healthy.

*Get plenty of rest

*Go to your ob-gyn regularly and do not miss your appointments

DO NOT:

*eat raw eggs, meat or fish

*drink apple cider that has not been pasteurized

*eat cheeses that have not been pasteurized

*drink alcohol

*consume caffeinated drinks or foods (limit the use of these greatly)

*take drugs

*smoke

Avoid:

*hot tubs/hot baths

*x-rays

*cat litter (may contain a parasite that causes birth defects)

*douching

*hurting your back

*stress (reduces blood flow through placenta)

At this point you should check out my page for moms.  That will provide you with information about what to do about school, how to get childcare paid for you while you're in school, how to possibly reduce your schedule or get private tutors, where to find affordable housing if that is the next step for you, information on health insurance for your baby, free food and formula through WIC, etc.

I truly wish you the best on this new stage in your life.  Remember that you will always have people to talk to, whether it is your own family or a support group of women who share the same experiences.  You are not alone even if you feel as though you are sometimes.  Stay strong.  Know that if you stick to it and are motivated to work hard in order to give your baby a good life, you can do it.  Women are incredibly strong and able to surpass many challenges in their lives.  Being a young mother is one of the greatest challenges we can be faced with, but also one of the most beautiful and rewarding ones.