Teenage pregnancy and physically abused.

Teenage pregnancies carry extra health risks to the mother and the baby. Often, teenagers don't receive timely prenatal care, and they have a higher risk for pregnancy-related high blood pressure and its complications. Risks for the baby include premature birth and a low birth-weight.

Taking close look on your child:

When your child grows, discuss about relationships. Keep books around that explain sex, relationships, and babies. Make sure your young teen receives comprehensive sexuality education. Do not assume they have accurate information. Ask questions. Make sure they understand your values, and also how to be safe if they choose to become sexually active and also make sure your child has accurate information about his or her body and the changes they are going through. Take a class together, continue to read books, and provide a support network for yourself and your child of adults willing to discuss the topic of sexuality openly and honestly. Love your child unconditionally, but do not be afraid to set limits. Keep communication open, working to understand rather than react. Doing all these things does not guarantee your teen will remain childless, however, they will stack the odds in your favor.

Physical abuse accounts for a majority of the pregnancy complications. This abuse is prevalent among pregnant women irrespective of age, educational status, socioeconomic or cultural background. Most of these cases go unnoticed due to the practice of accompanying a pregnant woman during her visit to the antenatal clinic, the lack of proper knowledge about available help or feeling of shame or fright.

Communicating about sex is an ongoing conversation throughout adolescence. Try not to corner your child with one-sided questions, but make it a two-way conversation. Correct any misconceptions that she may have sensitively without ridiculing. Discuss the effects of unplanned pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. Be specific while talking about contraception and disease prevention. Asking a hormonally charged teenager not to have sex does not help. Be realistic and discuss everything from being ready emotionally to using effective contraception. Play an active role in knowing your teenage son's friends and girlfriends. Encourage your teenagers in healthy practices like reading and sports. Reward their achievements and help them plan a smart future with meaningful goals.