There are many conversations you hope you never have with your parents. Telling them you flunked out of school or totaled the car is one thing, but saying you’re pregnant is on a whole different level. There are ways to break the news so everyone feels heard and understood. We’ll give you some tips on how to begin this difficult conversation.
First, Have You Confirmed Your Pregnancy?
Sometimes, a late period and a positive pregnancy test aren’t enough to verify you are actually pregnant. It helps to have a limited obstetrical ultrasound.
An ultrasound exam reveals if your pregnancy is growing or you have had a miscarriage. As strange as that seems, experts estimate as much as 26% of all pregnancies end in a miscarriage.
An ultrasound also reveals how far along your pregnancy is and its location. When a pregnancy implants outside the uterus, it is known as an ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy can be life-threatening.
You can receive a no-cost limited ultrasound at Women’s Care Mary’s Center with a positive pregnancy test result from one of our tests.
Telling Your Parents
Once you’ve confirmed your pregnancy, it’s time to talk to your parents. Here are a few things you will want to consider first:
- Make sure you are safe. If there is a possibility for physical harm, have your partner or a trusted friend with you when you talk. Or choose a public place to have a conversation.
- Choose a time when everyone is relaxed. Don’t throw that information out there when people are rushing out the door.
- Talk in person. Resist texting the news to get it over with. Meeting with them in person is the mature thing to do.
- Research your options. Be prepared to tell them what you would like to do. You have three options: an abortion, making an adoption plan, or parenting. Do your homework to find out what is available. Then, ask them what they think you should do.
- Give your parents time to process. You’ve had a little time to get over the shock. Give them time to understand what your pregnancy means for the family.
Beginning the Conversation
The hardest part is getting those first few words out of your mouth. How do you begin to talk about it? Here are a few suggestions for starting the conversation:
- “I have news that may upset you, but I want you to know…”
- “You will be disappointed by what I have to tell you…”
- “I’ve been struggling to tell you this, but I am pregnant,”
How Women’s Care Mary’s Center Can Help You
In addition to confirming your pregnancy, Women’s Care Mary’s Center offers other free pregnancy services. You can receive free clothing, diapers, and education. We know this is a stressful time, and are here to help you.
Please schedule a free appointment to discuss your situation, receive pregnancy testing and a limited ultrasound, and discuss the options available to you. We can also talk about how to approach your parents. We’re with you all the way.