Teen Crisis Pregnancy – Elya’s Story

A Teenage Girl in Deep Crisis

At 16 years old and pregnant by her abuser, Elya had faced intense pressure to have an abortion. She was scared of him, scared of what was happening to her body, and scared of what might come next. But she couldn’t bring herself to go through with it so, she lied and told him she’d had the abortion, and he left her alone.

Elya didn’t talk to anyone about it, didn’t ask for help, and pretended it wasn’t happening. But by 20 weeks, it was becoming harder to conceal her growing tummy and she couldn’t pretend anymore. She needed some help – and soon. Panic started to take over and every option felt terrifying.

Home Wasn’t Safe

Home was not a safe place for Elya either. She lived in a violent household. Her father was abusive, and both she and her mother suffered under his anger. There was no comfort or protection there. She couldn’t imagine how her family would react to the pregnancy or what her father might do.

With no one to talk to, and fear building each day, Elya was close to breaking. Then one afternoon, she noticed a small poster on a local noticeboard. It was about Life, offering help to anyone facing a crisis pregnancy.

A Lifeline in the Darkness

Elya was so terrified when she rang Life Helpline that she could barely speak. Her listener reassured her that she would stay on the line until she was ready to talk. When the words finally came out, they were practically inaudible. She struggled to explain what was happening. But the listener didn’t rush her.  She gave Elya time and space, helped her feel safe and listened. For the first time in a long while, Elya wasn’t carrying everything alone.

From that moment, Life supported her every step of the way. We understood how serious her situation was. Not just the pregnancy, but the fear, the pressure, and the violence around her. We didn’t tell her what to do. We simply offered a calm, steady hand to help her navigate the storm.

Finding Her Voice

Elya was given access to free, ongoing counselling. It took time for her to build relationships and to trust those who were supporting her. Talking through what she had experienced was painful at first. But slowly, she began to find her voice again. She was supported emotionally, practically, and through advocacy that helped her stay safe and protected.

Over time, Elya made her decision. She wanted to keep her baby.

The Path to Safety

Life’s Helpline Services Team supported Elya throughout her pregnancy and beyond. She was removed from her unsafe situation and supported to in another part of the country – away from her abuser and away from the violence in her home.

For the first time, Elya could breathe. She had a private, secure space to think, and rest, and a place where she could begin to move forward. A few months passed and she gave birth to a beautiful baby girl.

Building a Bright Future

Starting a new life with her daughter, Elya had a new goal in mind. She wanted to continue with her education and make a good life for her and her little family. Elya started college, firmly focused on the future for her and her daughter.

There are still challenges, of course. Being a young mum isn’t easy, especially after trauma. But Elya is no longer facing those challenges alone. Life continues to stand beside her, helping her move forward, one step at a time.

Elya’s story is a powerful reminder that with the right support, even in the most difficult circumstances, a young woman can find the strength to thrive.

Why Stories Like Elya’s Matter

There are many young women like Elya. They may be hiding in plain sight, smiling in school, sitting quietly on the bus, passing by in the shop. Behind those smiles might be fear, abuse, pressure, or confusion. They need someone they can trust. Someone who will walk with them, not push them in any one direction.

Be Part of the Change

Life offers that kind of support every day. If you believe in compassionate, non-judgemental help for women in crisis, you can be part of that too.

Support Life’s work and help someone like Elya find safety, strength, and a future.

Given Elya’s age and situation Life followed a strict safeguarding protocol and worked closely with other agencies to support Elya and keep her safe.

To protect our client’s privacy, we have used a stock image, changed her name and any identifying features.

Share Your Story of Resilience and Strength

Perhaps you have a story similar to Elya’s? Did you become a parent in difficult circumstances? If you did and would like to share your story, we would love to hear from you! Your story could be a beacon of hope for someone else facing unexpected pregnancy in trying times. Drop us a message below, or email communications@lifecharity.org.uk, and a member of the team will be in touch. Stories can be completely anonymous.