Does it feel like some people in your life think too little of you because of your age? Maybe you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy as a teen or young adult, and you’re frustrated with the way certain people you know are reacting to your pregnancy news. It could be that they’re questioning your ability to make your own best decision and cope with the outcomes. On the other hand, maybe you haven’t told anyone about the pregnancy yet. Maybe feeling underestimated is something you have to deal with all the time, so you’re confident that older loved ones and acquaintances would look down on you if they knew about your situation. Your frustration is understandable. Know that you have what it takes to navigate this pregnancy in your own best way, no matter what other people say.
Avenue Women’s Center is here to partner with you in this process. We’re a first-step pregnancy clinic that provides free and confidential support, so you can feel empowered with the tools you need to move forward. Our limited medical services include medical-grade pregnancy tests, options consultations, limited medical ultrasounds, and more.
Schedule a visit! We offer virtual consultations and in-person appointments at 5 locations in Chicagoland.
Your Feelings are Valid
Many young people feel like their opinions and desires are overlooked when it comes to their unexpected pregnancies. This may be true for you, whether you’re considering abortion, adoption, parenting, or all of the above. It can be frustrating and painful when others underestimate your abilities. And their attitudes might be shaking your confidence or making you doubt your choices, even if you feel you’re on the right path. These dynamics may also be affecting relationships that are important to you. A condescending approach can do a lot of harm, no matter the ages of the people involved.
If you feel hurt or angered by someone’s belittling attitude, that’s valid. It’s frustrating that teens and young adults are sometimes treated this way. (For some of us, that feeling of being underestimated continues well into adulthood.) People’s attitudes may be prideful and unfair. However, their negativity doesn’t have to impact you and your pregnancy decision-making process. You’re not responsible for their reactions. You’re just responsible for your own. And you can respond to them in a healthy way- showing them respect and standing up for yourself at the same time.
Speaking Up for Yourself
If you feel underestimated by someone you’re close to, having an honest and respectful conversation may be your next best step. They may genuinely care, even if they’re not expressing it well. An older loved one may have their own complex feelings about your pregnancy. Recognizing this shows maturity and empathy, which they’ll hopefully return. Your overarching message may go something like this: “I know that I’m young. But I’m capable of making my own best choice regarding this pregnancy, and I’m up for the task. I may just need some support along the way.” (By the way, support is essential for anyone who’s facing an unexpected pregnancy, regardless of their age!)
*Check out some of our other blogs for tips on navigating pregnancy conversations:
Helpful Communication Tools When Sharing Pregnancy News
Unexpectedly Pregnant: How to Have an Authentic Conversation with Parents
A Solid Foundation for Your Pregnancy Decision
A strong pregnancy decision requires strong support beams (key factors to build your decision upon). You’re capable of creating a solid foundation for your pregnancy choice, regardless of your age. Consider these important factors! Ask yourself how they relate to your situation, and how they may influence your decision-making process.
- Your values and beliefs. What do you value most in life? What are some of your most deeply held beliefs? Take some time to consider these questions, and ask yourself whether the answers may be pointing toward a particular pregnancy outcome. Chances are, you’ll have a natural feeling of confidence in your decision if it’s grounded in your values and beliefs.
- Your strengths and available resources. You already have personal strengths that could empower you to lean into your own best decision. Ask yourself what these unique qualities are, and how they could positively impact your decision-making process. You probably have outside resources available too, including different sources of practical and emotional support. It’s always possible to acquire more!
- Factual information about your pregnancy and options. This information may be easier to obtain than you realize, and it may play a key role in illuminating your best way forward. It’s important to get basic info about your pregnancy, like how far along you are and your chances of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy located outside of the uterus). Knowing this will allow you to protect your health as you navigate your next steps. Understanding your pregnancy options is also key to making a well-informed choice… one that you’re likely to have confidence in both now and later.
Avenue Women’s Center exists to help you build a strong foundation for your own best pregnancy decision. Our approach to early pregnancy support is strengths-based. We’re here to process your circumstances by you side, provide accurate information, and equip you with resources. We know that you’ve got this! And we’ve got your back as you navigate the days and weeks ahead.
Learn more about Avenue Women’s Center and reach out to schedule! We promise you’ll be met with compassion by our expert team.
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.