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Pregnancy - how do you know you're pregnant?

How do you know you're pregnant?
There is only one way to know for sure and that's by taking a pregnancy test. You can get a free test at your local doctors or clinic and they won't tell anyone else, including your parents. Alternatively you can buy pregnancy testing kits from your local chemist or supermarket, but to be absolutely sure it is always best to visit your local doctor or clinic too. You are at risk of pregnancy if you have sex contraception on any occasion at any time. So if you miss a period seek advice straight away; remember even if you are under 16 advice is free and confidential.

What happens in an abortion?
There are different methods of abortion including taking a pill and having an operation. If you have the operation, the will be removed from the womb by doctors using special equipment. You will usually be under an anaesthetic; so you won't feel any pain at the time, but may feel uncomfortable for a few days afterwards. Abortion is legal up to the 24th week of pregnancy in England, Scotland and Wales (in Northern Ireland it is only legal in exceptional circumstances). An abortion can be a very unpleasant and emotional thing to go through, so the best thing to do is avoid one by using contraception every time you have sex. However, accidents do happen. If you are faced with an unplanned pregnancy and think you want an abortion its important to act quickly because the earlier you have an abortion, the safer and easier it is. Abortion is a very safe procedure particularly when carried out in the first 12 weeks of the pregnancy and it is unlikely to lead to any future complications such as infertility. To find out more about abortions, or getting support in your area visit your local GP, nurse, or a Young Persons, Family Planning, Genito Urinary Medicine (GUM clinic), or Brook clinic.

Can you get pregnant/catch an STI from a toilet seat?
You can't pregnant or catch an STIfrom sitting on a toilet seat. To become pregnant sperm needs to go in or around the vagina.

Can you get pregnant if you don't have an orgasm?
Yes. An orgasm is just an intense feeling of sexual pleasure. It makes no difference to the chance you'll get pregnant. A condom or other type of contraception should always be used to avoid pregnancy.

What support is there for teenage mums/dads/parents?
Caring for a baby is a major responsibility and life-changing for anyone, regardless of age. Being a teenage parent can be even more difficult for many reasons and over 70% of teenage mums do say that if they had their time again they would not have a child so young. However, if you are a young parent or want to be a young parent then you have the same right to be respected and supported as everyone else. There are a lot of people out there to help you and you should talk to your local GP, nurse, local clinic, midwife or health visitor about schemes in your area such as Sure Start Plus.

If a boy pulls out his penis before he ejaculates can you still get pregnant?
Yes. Sometimes known as the withdrawal method this is not a safe way to avoid pregnancy or STIs. Boys can produce sperm as soon as the penis is hard so even if they don't ejaculate (cum) inside the vagina there is a risk of pregnancy. As a rule if sperm gets anywhere near the entrance to the vagina during any sexual activity; including on fingers; there is a risk of pregnancy so always use contraception. Only condoms can protect you against both pregnancy and STIs.

My period is late/irregular.
The best thing to do if you are worried about your period is to visit your doctor or local clinic. Girl's periods can be irregular for many different reasons including stress and diet. But if you have had sex without using contraception and your period is late you should take a pregnancy test as soon as possible — available from your local doctor or clinic.

What will they ask me when I go to the clinic and will they keep my information private?
They will ask you for a few details such as your name, age and contact details. Some people are tempted to give false details but remember that everything is kept completely confidential anyway, even if you are under 16. The only circumstance in which this doesn't apply is if they think you have been taken advantage of (e.g. pressured into sex you didn't want) and even then they should discuss this with you first. Most importantly you will need to tell them your true history so that they can help you. Clinics deal with many young people every day and they have a good idea how you might be feeling and for this reason they will make your visit as comfortable and private as possible.