Keep my baby or keep my job? I'm about 6 weeks pregnant and I'm only 17. I'm about to sign a contract for a 13 month apprenticeship.

[CatLover43]

I'm unsure as to if my pregnancy will prevent me from taking this job, but without the job I will have no way to support myself and baby. Advice & opinions please?

Thanks x

[rachf]

Hi hun,

I'm sorry you find yourself having to weigh up this kind of decision and I hope you have the support of others outside this group. Don't let anyone tell you what to do though, as it's you that has to live with the consequences of either decision. It's so important you make a choice based on what you feel is right/best for yourself.

Would it be possible for you to discuss your pregnancy with anyone at your potential job? Perhaps they can be more flexible than you think so you're not having to choose between the apprenticeship and continuing the pregnancy...

I'd recommend going to see your GP - in either case they will be necessary to refer you to the next step, and they will be able to help fully inform you of your options. Marie Stopes also offer free telephone counselling which is great if you want to talk to someone impartial and unbiased about your uncertainties.

Whatever you end up deciding, I hope you can feel positive that you have done what is best for yourself. Best wishes xx

[Hopeful15]

Hi CatLover43,

You're being wonderfully brave. Remember that, whatever happens and whatever you decide and I agree with rachf, don't let anyone tell you what to do. You'll make the right decision for you. To help you make that decision you need to make sure that you are happy with your decision when you make it. Get all of the help that you possibly can and talk things over with the people in your life who care about you as much as you need.

I've found this link:

nct.org.uk/pregnancy/how-do...

Which goes through the basics of what you need to consider in regards to your employment and your pregnancy - when you are legally obliged to tell your employer and what that means for you. It's a difficult one for all mothers, so don't think you are alone. I agree with rachf that if you haven't done so yet, talk to your GP asap regardless of what decision you finally make - they will be able to tell you everything you need to know and consider and tell you about what local information services and support networks there are for you to use as a resource.

There's also these links with more info:

nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy...

hse.gov.uk/mothers/ - this goes over the legals of health and safety in the workplace.

maternityaction.org.uk/wp/a...

maternityaction.org.uk/site...

Good luck and shout if you still need us. You'll be fine and everything is going to work out exactly as it is supposed to.

[Hidden]

Take the job. Even if you don't finish the apprenticeship, it will be a good experience to show others your commitment to working. But, you will also eed to tell them at some point, to make sure that you're kept safe at work.

[firefly_]

I think the others have given great advice ... the onlyother thing I would say is that you can probably work the next eight months -- so so most of your apprenticeship and legally your work can't withdraw the offer because you are pregnant. Please do call Marie Stopes and speak to someone. wishing you all the best x