How Do I Tell My Parents I am Pregnant?
An unexpected pregnancy can be overwhelming, especially if you are concerned about how to tell your parents about your pregnancy.
No matter how close you are to your parents, the thought of telling them can be scary. Before you do anything, stop and breathe. You will get through this!
Practical tips on telling your parents you are pregnant
Now that you’ve taken that breath, here are 5 practical tips on how to prepare to tell your parents you’re pregnant.
- Consider Journaling – Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be very helpful. Let your emotions flow. Whether it’s fear, excitement, or confusion, put it in writing. The American Psychological Association says, “expressive writing reduces intrusive and avoidant thoughts about negative events…” When you take thoughts outside of yourself and put them on the paper, this helps free your mind and can even better enable you to “cope more effectively with stress.” Related to journaling, some psychologists also support the concept of prayer which can help “focus our attention.” For example, an article at Psychology Today says prayer serves as “a coping mechanism to manage stress during difficult situations.”
- Obtain a Medical Pregnancy Confirmation & Ultrasound – It can give you peace of mind to obtain a medical-grade pregnancy test and an ultrasound from a medical professional. The pregnancy test and ultrasound can give you accurate information about how far along you are, and other health information that can prepare you with important facts when you discuss your pregnancy. Medical professionals at Waterleaf Women’s Center can provide you with a free pregnancy test and ultrasound. No insurance is required. Call or text Waterleaf confidentially at 630-360-2256.
- Rehearse the Conversation with a Trusted Friend or Mentor – Perhaps you are concerned about the unexpected when talking to your parents about your pregnancy. What might they say? Try having a discussion with a trusted friend, or a friend’s parents. This can help ease your uncertainty. Some psychologists identify the benefit of a therapist or counselor because they are “a neutral party” who can help you rehearse.
- Think through Who, When, and Where? – There’s no “right or wrong” way to tell your parents you are pregnant. You could spontaneously do it right now. Or you could evaluate things like: Where should I tell them? Should I tell one parent separately or both together? Should I bring someone else with me like a friend, mentor, my partner, or a pastor? These variables can all depend on your level of comfort and your relationships.
- Be Ready to Let Your Parents Process – Remember, just as you had an initial reaction to your pregnancy, your parents might too. PsychCentral observes that parents’ “first reaction may not be what you (or your partner) really need to hear.” But it can be helpful to everyone to give them time to digest the news rather than react to it right away.
Where do I start?
Whatever your situation, the professionals at Waterleaf Women’s Center are here to help. We can provide you with information about your pregnancy, provide support and education, connect you with resources within the community, and help you plan out what the next few months will look like. You can come alone, with a partner or friend, or even your parents. We treat everyone with compassion and confidentiality.
Contact us today for a free consultation by calling or texting 630-360-2256. We are here for you!
