By CERYS PUMPHREY, MYP for Dorset

TEEN pregnancy. It’s a taboo subject in Britain. But it is also increasingly common.

In modern times many young women find themselves pregnant – whether by accident or deliberately.

But that doesn’t change the fact that they are still young people, who need support from those around them. Anyone who has been pregnant will know the challenges they must face, but with teenage pregnancy many mothers are not prepared for what is to come.

During the pregnancy they will constantly be judged due to their age, many looking down at them.

When they have given birth, they must provide for the child, financially and morally.

For most teenagers this will be a challenge, especially if there is no support.

Many teenage pregnancies don’t result in live births, but in miscarriages or terminations instead. These losses have an effect upon the mum-to-be for the rest of her life, especially if she wanted to keep the child.

Even though there are problems with the idea of teenage pregnancy, many people still decide to have children young. This isn’t always a bad thing, but sometimes is a blessing.

The child could bring a family together, or could symbolise a new beginning. But, no matter what the pregnancy results, one thing is for sure; all teenagers who are pregnant need the support. Not the criticisms and not the judgement.