Finding out you are pregnant can be a very stressful and scary time. Often women are afraid to tell their parents about an unexpected pregnancy for reasons ranging anywhere from apprehension about their response to concerns about being a disappointment to them. Even though you may want your parent’s support, you may feel that your parents are strict and that you can’t tell them you are pregnant.
If you are afraid of telling your parents about a possible pregnancy, Avenue Women’s Center is available as a resource to you. We have helped women of all different ages and backgrounds navigate a pregnancy decision for almost 40 years. Our caring client advocates can provide you with the information and support you need to have a successful conversation with your parents. Call, chat, email or text for an appointment right away!
Growing up, perhaps you were under a lot of rules and expectations from your parents. You may be fearful of sharing news with them that might disappoint them or make them angry. When there are high standards to uphold, there can also be a lot of uncertainty as to whether you are meeting their approval. When it comes to an unexpected pregnancy, you may already sense their disappointment. The thought of sharing the news with them may feel overwhelming. Here are some tips that will help equip you to have a more successful discussion:
First of all, the more information you are able to gather regarding your pregnancy and options, the better prepared you will be to have a discussion with your family regarding your situation and plans. Consider how your parents have responded to difficult information in the past. Even if they were disappointed, did you feel you could count on them for their support? Did you feel safe in discussing your difficult situation with them? If you feel you need support either from a friend or another supportive adult, consider having a third party involved while you talk with your parents.
Once you have gathered your information, it is generally going to be best if your family hears of your pregnancy and plans directly from you. Come up with a plan for how you will tell your family and how you might handle their anticipated responses, so that you can remain calm during the telling. In general, if possible, try to tell your parents face to face, but if you feel that would not be a good situation for you, consider writing it out for them, then discussing afterwards. Try to let them know when they will have time to process the information with you.
If you’ve already made a choice regarding your pregnancy, try to calmly describe how you came to that conclusion. Try to present your choices while at the same time allowing your family to voice any concerns they may have. Your family should not pressure you to make any particular decision. Legally, this is your decision. If you are feeling pressured in any way, please do reach out for help. If you feel the conversation is escalating or uncomfortable, then choose to end if for now and revisit when everyone can calm down.
Avenue Women’s Center is here to help. Our free services will provide you with the information and support you need to take the next steps in your pregnancy decision. Learn more about your pregnancy options, including abortion, adoption, and parenting, while discussing questions or concerns you may have regarding sharing the news with your parents. Our convenient locations in Elmhurst, Glen Ellyn / Lombard, Naperville, West Chicago, and Wood Dale, Illinois offer same-day appointments. Contact us for a free pregnancy test or options consultation today.
The information provided here is general in nature. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.