Washington, DC (LifeNews.com) -- An announcement from Alaska governor and vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin that her 17-year-old daughter is pregnant has been well-received by pro-life groups. Although none of the groups that have talked with LifeNews.com want an increase in teen pregnancies, they all say abortions compound the problem.

Palin and her husband announced that their daughter Bristol is pregnant and she will both keep the child and eventually marry the father of the baby.

Marjorie Dannenfelser, the president of the Susan B. Anthony List, a pro-life women’s group, says the decision highlights the pro-life values Palin brings to the presidential ticket with Senator John McCain.

"We live in an imperfect world. When crisis reaches our children we feel it intensely. As a mother of five, I am uplifted to have this example of incredible maternal courage. I am not alone in this. Today's announcement is just one more example of how Sarah truly represents authentic women's leadership. When it comes to choosing life, Sarah Palin doesn't just talk the talk, she personally walks the walk, time and time again,” she said.

"Sarah Palin's family is a microcosm for every courageous pro-life story there is, and I admire her even more now. Her response of boundless love and inclusiveness is a shining example for every family facing a crisis,” she added.

Family Research Council president Tony Perkins chimed in as well and issued his support for the Palin family and the way they have handled the situation.

"Unfortunately, teenage pregnancy has become all too common in today's society regardless of a family's economic or social status. It is problem that we remain committed to reducing through encouraging young people to practice abstinence," Perkins said.

"Fortunately, Bristol is following her mother and father's example of choosing life in the midst of a difficult situation,” he added in a statement sent to LifeNews.com.

“We are committed to praying for Bristol and her husband to be and the entire Palin family as they walk through a very private matter in the eyes of the public," Perkins added.

Several pro-life groups and leaders say the Palin family’s announcement shows a respect for life lacking in the comments Barack Obama made earlier this year.

"The unexpected child -- what Barack Obama has called 'punishment' -- is praised as a blessing by Todd and Sarah Palin," Dannenfelser told LifeNews.com. "Once again, the contrasting wordviews of the pro-life Sarah Palin and the pro-abortion Barack Obama come into stark relief for American voters."

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