22, working, & pregnant...Not the best mix...

Shelli Lynn

I don't know if anyone else out there is like me but I thought I'd see for myself. 

 I'm 22 and expecting my first child.  I'm about 4 weeks in and needless to say, this was not expected at all!  How am I going to do this?  I want to be a good mom, but I can't cut back on my hours at work because we need the money (obviously we all do, we're having or had kids!).  I know it's still early, and I have time to figure out how to make this work, but I'm so torn.  I'm scared to death too.  My biggest fear is screwing this kid up. Was, or is, anyone else like this? 

electricdoctor83

You will make it work and do what you have to so you can provide the best possible situation for your baby.

If there is a will, there is a way....ask for help if you have family and friends in your area.  You have plently of time to get used to the idea of having a child, just take it one step at a time.

There are millions of working young moms that are fabulous and have well rounded children.  You don't always have to be in your 30's, stay at home and have a white picket fence to be a great mom. 

You will be great, just allow yourself to breath for now.

JLS0320

I think everyone worries about these same issues, whether baby is planned or not! It is a huge change/adjustment to your life, and just like the rest of us you will make it work, do a great job, and not remember what it was like before baby. You have a long time to figure it out, try and relax and enjoy your pre-baby time.

AlisaS

Somehow it works out. Start thinking about childcare ahead of anything else. Who will watch your child while you work?

haleymay18

I was 22, working and pregnant, too. Granted, I was married (still am-obviously). I don't think your age should scare you. You are out of high school and many 22 year olds are out of college at that age too.

You can work full time and be a good mom and you have to believe that. I would start looking for care for your baby after it is born, you may have an easier pg (mentally) if you have a plan for after birth.

Good luck, you'll be fine

gypsywitch

Screwing baby up from working? No way....Of course you're scared at the beginning...my 1st daughter is 2 1/2 and I cried when I found out I was pregnant with her LOL; I was married, in the military, very stable but wow I wasn't expecting that...and no 2 1/2 years later I'm still afraid of screwing her up LOL...some days I think " I really hope my kid does not turn out to be an A-hole".  And usually the fear of screwing up your kid, is enough for you to work really hard not to!!  I found out I pregnant with DD#1 when I was 20yrs old, I had her when I was 21. I'm now 23 and will be 24 when baby #2 is born. Its kind of overwhelming being what most people would call "so young" .... but honestly I wouldn't want it any other way...my kids will be grown and gone by the time I'm in my mid 40's and DH and I will both be retiring from the Air Force and we can pursue other careers ( I will, I am pursuing my BA in religious studies right now) or jsut vacation for a while! SO there are good things about being young and having children!! Don't worry hun, things will settle down, this is still all new to you.

InLovewSB

I'm surrounded by women who work full time and raise children successfully. Don't let yourself be scared by the "what ifs" your mind conjures. It will work out! Just try to be proactive when it comes to day care/child care. Start looking into places and costs sooner rather than later. Some places have waiting lists, some are expensive. But, again, don't worry - look around everywhere before you start to freak out.