When you are pregnant, Dr Tony Lau, Public Education Series No. 5 (2013)

When you are pregnant unexpectedly, be calm and make good choices!

Many teenagers find out they are pregnant unexpectedly. She may be sad, scared, angry, feeling guilty or ashamed. She may cry easily. She may keep the pregnancy secret. These are understandable.

You could make good choices! Please talk to trusted adults about your current situation. Professional people likes doctors, nurses, social workers and teachers could offer clear and correct information for you. Information from peers might be biased such that unsound decision is made resulting in unfavorable or dangerous situation. Your health and baby’s health are paramount.

Pregnancy in teenage girl is associated with risks of nutritional deficiency, mood problems, partner violence, unsatisfactory weight gain or unhealthy risky behaviour. The baby is affected by these situations and may be born prematurely with low birth weight. Young mother faces changing roles. Issues of financial or housing difficulties may arise. In Hong Kong, enhanced service for pregnant teenager is provided by Hospital Authority and other organizations working in partnership. Such services include enhanced antenatal care, education and talks on child care, career planning and counseling.

If you need information on termination of pregnancy, consult a registered doctor for professional advice. Utilization of illegal medical service or substandard medical service outside Hong Kong will result in irreversible damage to your body including infectious diseases, surgical complications or problems of fertility.

The following services are reliable and appropriate for your needs:

1.           Family Planning Association of Hong Kong

Wan Chai. Tel. 25754799;  Mong Kok. Tel 27704994; Tsuen Wan. Tel. 24432773

2.           Mother’s Choice

Tel. 2868 2022

3.           “When Teens Meet Angels” - by Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hong Kong

Tel 51322155

4.           “Caritas Project Hyacinth” - by Caritas Social Service Division

Tel 25802626 or 95513707

5.           Maternal and Child Health Centers (31 clinics in different districts in Hong Kong)

Please talk to professional people. Your confidentiality will be respected!

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Disclaimer: This Education Material is for information only. Users will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein which should not replace advices from their health care professionals.

This material is made possible with the assistance from adolescent volunteers. Free download http://hksah.blogspot.hk/