Finding out you’re pregnant can feel uneasy, especially when you think about telling your parents. Every family is different, but if you plan ahead for the talk, it will go more smoothly.
There are places you can go for support. Jewel Women’s Center is here to help you and give you tips on how to make this talk go better.
1. Consider How You Feel
Before you talk to your parents, think about how you feel. You can write your feelings down in a journal, talk to a friend that you trust, or even take a deep breath and say out loud what you want to say. When you know your own feelings, it allows you to talk to others more calmly and confidently.
2. Be Ready For Worries And Questions
Your parents are most likely concerned about your health, safety, and what to do next. Think about what questions they might have and how you can answer them truthfully. They might wonder:
- How far along are you?
- Do you have any health concerns?
- Do you know what your next steps are?
- Do you want to have an abortion, keep the baby, or consider another option like adoption?
- Who is the father, and does he know?
Planning answers to questions like these will prepare you for the conversation and help it to go smoothly, showing that you are being thoughtful about your situation.
3. Choose A Good Time And Place
Pick a time when your parents can give you their full attention so you can discuss things without being rushed.
It’s also important to find a place where you feel safe and comfortable. You might want your parents to come to your bedroom where you feel calm and relaxed, or perhaps you’d feel better at a picnic table in your backyard.
You don’t need to have everything set up perfectly. You just need a private place to talk honestly.
4. Talk About Your Options
After you first share the news and answer any questions so that you can make the best decision together, you can talk about what comes next. You might seek options alone, with your parents, or with someone you trust, such as:
- find a place like Jewel Women’s Center to get answers to your questions or your parents’ questions
- learn about your options such as abortion, adoption, or parenting
- gather information and get advice for you and your family (and maybe your partner, too)
All of these things are available to you at Jewel Women’s Center. If you want, your parents can help you make an appointment or even go with you.
Do One Thing At A Time
You don’t have to make all your choices right away. You don’t even have to make all the decisions the same day you talk to your parents.
Doing things with careful thought can help you relax as much as possible and a place like Jewel Women’s Center can help you take things one step at a time.
Remember There Is Support
You don’t have to go through this alone. Visit Jewel Women’s Center on your own or with someone you trust for emotional support, tests, ultrasounds, and information about your options.