Fear, Guilt, Shame and Regret

In addition to denial, the following feelings are very common for teens who are unintentionally pregnant:

Fear: You may be afraid of how your parents or boyfriend will react. You may fear the changes that will happen in your body or the pain of childbirth. You may be afraid of being rejected by friends, relatives or your church. Or you fear all the unknowns ahead.

Guilt: You realize you have broken God’s laws concerning sexual activity before marriage. You may be so guilt-ridden at this point that you can barely focus on anything else.

Shame: You don’t want to be known as “that kind of girl.” You are embarrassed about losing your reputation as a virgin and fear you will be reminded of your shame for months to come as your pregnancy changes your appearance.

Regret: Knowing that you can’t change the past, you may feel you have ruined your life or your boyfriend’s life. You may think you have shattered your parents’ reputation in the church or the community. You may be feeling for the first time the pain of facing serious consequences that cannot be undone.