Hey Mom, I’m Pregnant
You never thought you’d be telling your parents you’re pregnant. You never thought it would happen to you… but it is. So what now?
Take your time. If you’re pregnant and it wasn’t quite planned, take a deep breath.
Though you’re likely to have several emotions spinning through your head, you don’t want to rush into a decision. You can’t change what has happened, but you have full control to carefully consider your next step. Give yourself time and space.
You have options, so now is your time to make an informed decision.
Share the news. Revealing your unplanned pregnancy to those closest to you can be difficult. But it’s important to let them know so you won’t have to deal with this pregnancy alone. Family members and friends may react in different ways, but open and honest communication is vital. Those who have been through a similar situation can often provide valuable support.
Who is the safest person in your life? Who do you trust to help support you in making decisions and taking the next step?
Timing is important. When is the best time to break the news? How will you tell them - in person? In a text or over the phone? Will you go alone or take someone with you ? Where will you tell them - at the kitchen table? In your living room? At someone else’s home?
Think through the details in advance. Plan to tell your family when everyone has time to sit down and talk without interruption. If possible, avoid starting the discussion late at night or early in the morning when everyone is leaving for work or school. It may take some time for your family to process this news.
Prepare yourself for their reactions. You may think you know how your family will respond, but you also might be surprised. It probably took you some time for the reality to sink in, so give them time, too. If they react with judgmental or condemning words, remind them that this is a difficult time for you and you need their support. If they try to pressure you into making a quick decision about parenting, adoption or abortion, ask them to give you time to carefully consider all your options.
Ask yourself:
“Who in my life genuinely cares about me?”
“How do I really feel about each of my options - abortion, adoption, parenting?”
“How did I feel about each option before I found out I was pregnant?”
“How will my choice affect my health? My body? My future?”
“How will I feel about my decision one year from now? Ten years from now?
Where you go from here matters. You can come through this a stronger woman. You owe it to yourself to take time and get the facts. This is your life, your pregnancy and your future. You can do it.
Face it together. Many people will offer advice, but it’s important to seek the wisdom and counsel of those who understand the unique dynamics of an unplanned pregnancy. Contact Parkridge for confidential and compassionate care. What you are going through is not easy. There are no simple answers. Talk with those you trust openly and honestly, but also respect each other’s need for time and space. It’s not easy - but it’s possible.
Parkridge Can Help!
At Parkridge we serve clients with pregnancy testing, ultrasound confirmation, STD testing and treatment, options education, counseling, and after abortion support. All of our services are free, and confidential. If you decide to include your family in your pregnancy, you are welcome to bring them with you to part or all of your appointment. Call 806.794.8555 to schedule an appointment or click here.
We hope the information included here is helpful and is received in conjunction with other medical information. This blog post is not intended to replace information directly received from a medical provider.
