No matter how old we are, even if we are at a difficult time or in a strained relationship with them, for most people there’s some part of us that still longs to have the approval of our parents. Although there are unfortunate exceptions, parents generally care for and want the best for their children. One life circumstance high on the list of “what if I disappoint my parents?” is an unplanned pregnancy.
Since 1981, Avenue Women’s Center has been the first step for those in the western suburbs of Chicago who are facing an unintended pregnancy and all that goes with it. Although each woman’s (or couple’s) situation is unique, our thirty-seven years’ experience has prepared us to give helpful and effective assistance for what you’re now facing. Medical grade pregnancy tests and confidential pregnancy consultations with experienced client advocates are just a couple of the services provided at no cost to you. Please contact us today and allow us to accompany you as you set out on this journey.
If “what if I disappoint my parents?” was one of your first thoughts as you confronted the possibility of your unplanned pregnancy, it indicates you value your relationship with them, and desire their acceptance and support. Sometimes when we care about the reaction of others to a situation we are in, or to a choice we will make, we tend to fear the worst possible scenario we can imagine. “They’ll just not accept this.” “They’ll never forgive me.” “They’ll write me off and disown me forever.” “They’ll not support me, even though I need their support now like never before.”
When approaching the possibility of letting your parents know about the pregnancy, it’s important to consider all of the potential outcomes. Although it is easy to think of the worst case scenarios, we must also consider the option that they won’t respond as harshly as we imagine. Would your parents be more upset that you got pregnant or that you got pregnant and didn’t tell them about it? If you decide not to tell them, do you think you ever will? If not, would you be able to keep a secret from them long-term?
In working with women who have gone through similar circumstances, I have seen parents respond in many different ways. Sometimes, the parents completely surprised their daughter by being loving, supportive, and positive. Other times, they may have responded exactly how it seemed they would. In each situation, the only way to determine the outcome was by taking the plunge and letting them know.
In answering the question, “what if I disappoint my parents?,” there are various other factors to consider. Regardless of how you decide to approach your next steps, it’s important to know you don’t have to navigate this alone. The nonjudgmental client advocates at Avenue Women’s Center have assisted many women as they have dealt with the relational components of a pregnancy decision—and so much more. Contact us today by phone, chat, text, or email to set up a free pregnancy consultation at one of our five DuPage County locations: Elmhurst, Glen Ellyn / Lombard, Naperville, West Chicago, and Wood Dale, Illinois. It will be our honor to serve you.
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.