Think you're pregnant?

If you've missed a period since you had unprotected sex, you might be worried that you're pregnant. Even if your periods are normally very regular, it's not unusual to be late occasionally but it is normal to be concerned, so you should find out as soon as possible.

• Signs of pregnancy
• Where to get a pregnancy a test
• If you're sure you're pregnant
• Keeping the baby
• Abortion
• Adoption

Signs of pregnancy

The most obvious sign of pregnancy is a missed period, but a few women continue to have a monthly bleed even when they are pregnant. Other signs include:

• Feeling sick (or being sick) in the morning or other times of the day.
• Breast tenderness.
• Needing to pee more often.
• Being constipated.
• Increased vaginal discharge.
• Feeling tired.
• Having a strange taste in your mouth.
• 'Going off' certain things like tea or coffee, tobacco smoke or fatty food.

Where to get a pregnancy a test

You can get pregnancy tests free from your GP, community contraception clinic or young person's clinic, such as Brook (under 25's only.).

You can also get pregnancy test kits from the chemist, which cost a few pounds. These are usually very accurate.

If you're sure you're pregnant

If you are pregnant, it is important to get the right advice and support as soon as possible. You have several choices:

• Keeping the baby
• Abortion
• Adoption

Keeping the baby

Give yourself time to adjust and be prepared for mixed reactions. A baby will change other people's lives too.

Even if the father isn't supportive, he can't force you to have an abortion and neither can your family.

There are plenty of people and organisations who can help or support you if you're together or on your own. This includes post-natal care for you and your baby.

Abortion

It's not an easy decision. Under the law, in England, Scotland and Wales, abortion is legal in certain circumstances and the procedure can be carried out up to the 24th week of pregnancy, but the earlier it's done, the safer it is. In some circumstances, there is no time limit however most abortions are done before week 13.

Abortion is illegal in Northern Ireland.

Adoption

Adoptions can be arranged through social services or special agencies. You can't formally agree to an adoption until six weeks after the birth - in case you change your mind.

Get information and advice on your options from your doctor, family planning clinic or from Brook (for under 25s only) on 0800 0185023, British Pregnancy Advisory Service on 08457 304030, Marie Stopes Clinics on 0845 300 8090 or your local young people's services.

For more information on sexual health (including HIV), call the Sexual Health Line free (from the UK) on 0800 567 123, textphone (for people with hearing impairments) 0800 521 361 or phone your local NHS sexual health clinic.