Telling a partner, or parent/carer that you are pregnant can be
difficult.
You might be worried about:
• How they will react?
• If they will support you?
These are concerns that most people have, but not talking about
being pregnant won't make your concerns or the pregnancy go away.
Think about who you could talk to about the pregnancy - your
mum/dad/brother/sister or a close friend.
Pregnancy counselling can offer you the information and support
you need during this time and is readily available at Sandyford,
and the other youth health services. If you choose to speak to
someone you will be given the chance to talk about your feelings
and any worries or concerns you may have. The counsellor will
listen to you and can support you in your decision. Whatever you
and the counsellor discuss will be kept private and
confidential.
Private and confidential
All individuals can agree to medical treatment including
termination of pregnancy (abortion). If you are under the age of 16
you can decide to have medical treatment including termination of
pregnancy (abortion) if the doctor you see decides you have
understood what is involved and the possible short term and long
term effects of the treatment.
Your doctor and other health professionals can offer
confidential advice on any health topic and anything you say is
kept private.
The only time they would pass on information to anyone else is
if they think you or someone else is in danger of serious harm.
They would always discuss this with you first. Staff will encourage
you to talk to an adult but if you choose not to they will respect
your decision.
Most services have a confidentiality statement, which should
outline your rights and clearly explain the boundaries of your
right to confidentiality.