Finding out that you’re unexpectedly pregnant can be frightening and stressful. Realizing you have to break the news to your parents dials all the emotions up to eleven!
We understand—it can be easy to panic in moments like this. Stop, and take a deep breath. You are not the only person to go through this. We understand that everyone’s circumstances are very personal to them and that this is a big deal. The CHOICES team is here to help you move forward, and you are not alone with this decision.
How to Tell Your Parents You Are Pregnant
Organize Your Thoughts and Feelings
Try to organize your thoughts and feelings before telling your parents the news. You can even write down what you’d like to say and practice this conversation with someone you trust! We are here for you to practice this conversation with a trusted adult. This may help you to process the importance of the actual conversation.
Be Direct
When the time comes to share the news, try to avoid dancing around the subject. This only increases the tension and may make all of you anxious. Your words can be as simple and straightforward as “I have something difficult to tell you. This isn’t what I planned, but I’m pregnant”.
Be prepared to answer questions. They might ask who the father is, if you used protection, when you got pregnant, or how long you’ve been sexually active. Try to think about what they might want to know and be prepared to answer them.
Give Them Time to Process Their Own Thoughts and Feelings
Their initial reaction may be disappointing and even hurtful. Try not to take it personally and give them time to process their own feelings.
Once everyone is ready, you can gather back together and apologize for anything that was said out of shock. Your parents may have strong feelings about the pregnancy but know that no one can force you to make a certain decision. The choice is yours and yours alone!
Before You Tell Mom You're Pregnant...
Confirm Your Pregnancy
It’s always best to be certain that you’re pregnant before saying anything. Even if you’ve already taken an over-the-counter pregnancy test, contact CHOICES to receive a professional pregnancy test and determine from there what your next steps might be.
Those steps could include an ultrasound to rule out any false positives. Ultrasounds can determine if you have a viable pregnancy in your womb, as well as tell you how far your pregnancy has progressed.
Interested in more information about ultrasounds? Click here to contact us.
Explore Your Pregnancy Options
With a positive test result, you will need to educate yourself on your pregnancy options. You don’t have to make the final decision right now.
Remember to breathe. It’s important to start thinking about which option you think might be best for your future. Here are some thoughts to help you get started:
Abortion in Colorado
Although CHOICES does not refer for or provide abortion services, we are equipped to educate you about any questions you have about abortion and abortion procedures. It’s important to be aware of the risks and side effects of abortion so you can make a fully informed decision!
Adoption in Colorado
Birth mothers have complete control of their adoption plan. There are also physical and mental health resources and financial assistance available to help you make the best choices for yourself and your child.
Our highly trained staff can help you explore adoption without any pressure or commitment! Whenever you’re ready, we can connect you with our trusted adoption partners.
Parenting
We get it—the mere idea of parenting can feel overwhelming. You are not in this alone. CHOICES offers free parenting classes from the prenatal stages to the toddler years. Our parenting classes are a great opportunity to develop your parenting skills and connect with a mentor who will help guide you on your parenting journey.
Your parents may want to know what options you’re considering once you’ve told them the news. Having some ideas and resources in mind may help the conversation go smoother! Whatever you choose, know that the CHOICES team is here for you each step of the way.
Free Pregnancy Resources in Woodland Park, CO
The most important tip of all? Remember, you’re not alone! CHOICES provides free pregnancy tests, free ultrasounds, and a safe, confidential place to explore your options and share what’s on your mind. Whatever you choose, our compassionate client advocates are here to show you the support you deserve.
Give us a call at (719) 284-2300, text us at (719) 694-3201, or visit us online at whatchoices.com and schedule your free appointment today. All services are confidential and free of charge!
Please be aware that CHOICES does not provide or refer for abortion services.
Sources
Medical Abortion. Cleveland Clinic. (2021). Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21899-medical-abortion#