If you’re a teenager who just found out you might be pregnant, you’re probably thinking about one conversation more than any other:
“How am I going to tell my parents?”
You may be afraid they’ll be disappointed, angry, or hurt. Maybe you’re worried they’ll tell you what to do before you’ve even had time to process the news yourself. It’s understandable if you’ve replayed the conversation over and over in your mind, wondering how they’ll react.
While there’s no perfect way to tell your parents you’re pregnant, there are steps you can take to make the conversation more productive. And before you have that conversation, it’s also important to make sure you have accurate information about your pregnancy so you can answer questions and understand your own options.
Read on for tips on approaching the conversation, or contact Pregnancy Help Center to find a safe space to talk and get answers.
Start by Confirming Your Pregnancy with an Ultrasound
If you’ve taken a home pregnancy test and received a positive result, an ultrasound can provide additional information about your pregnancy.
Many people don’t realize that a pregnancy test can only detect pregnancy hormones. It cannot tell you how far along you are, whether the pregnancy is located in the uterus, or whether the pregnancy is viable. An ultrasound can tell you these details, which are critical for helping you determine your next steps.
Having this information before talking with your parents can help you feel more prepared and confident going into the conversation.
Choose a Time When You Can Talk Without Rushing
Once you’ve confirmed your pregnancy with an ultrasound or have plans to schedule one, think about when you’ll have the conversation with your parents.
Try to choose a time when everyone is relatively calm and there won’t be constant interruptions. Avoid bringing up the conversation in the middle of an argument, while someone is rushing out the door, or during another stressful situation.
When you sit down with them, be honest about what you know and what you don’t know.
It’s okay to say:
“I recently found out I might be pregnant.”
“I’m scared, and I don’t know what to do.”
“I’ve scheduled an ultrasound so I can learn more about my pregnancy.”
You don’t need to have every answer before talking with them. Simply being honest about where you are can open the door to a meaningful conversation.
Keep in mind that your parents may need time to process the news. Their first reaction may not reflect how they’ll feel a few days later after they’ve had time to think. So if you’re disappointed by their initial reaction, give it some time, and they might surprise you after they’ve had time to think through your news.
Take Time to Learn About All of Your Options
After your parents know about your pregnancy, you may begin hearing a lot of opinions.
Your parents may encourage you to parent. Or they may suggest adoption or abortion. While it’s natural to listen to the people who care about you, it’s important to remember that this is a decision you should make after learning as much as you can about all of your options.
Before going into the conversation, think through what you’re leaning towards and why. This will help you talk to your parents honestly and share your heart more confidently.
Pregnancy Help Center Is Here for You
You don’t have to face an unexpected pregnancy alone.
At Pregnancy Help Center, we provide a safe, confidential place where you can ask questions, receive pregnancy testing, and schedule an ultrasound at no cost to learn more about your pregnancy. Our team is here to provide compassionate support and evidence-based information so you can understand your options and make an informed decision about your future.
Whether you’re nervous about telling your parents, wondering what an ultrasound can tell you, or simply looking for someone to talk with, we’re here to help.
Contact Pregnancy Help Center today to schedule your no-cost, confidential appointment and take the first step toward finding the answers and support you deserve. You’re not alone in this.