If you are on this webpage, you are probably facing a huge challenge in your life right now – an unplanned pregnancy. Now, more than ever, you will need your loved ones’ support and help through this difficult time.
Telling Family & Loved Ones, “I’m Pregnant”
Neither you nor your loved ones are ready for this conversation, but it needs to be done. First, it’s important to understand the feelings that your family and loved ones may go through when you tell them about your unplanned pregnancy – whether it be anger, disappointment, or joy. It will be an easier conversation and they will be more understanding of you if you understand what emotions they are going through.
Should I Tell My Family & Loved Ones?
You may be questioning whether or not you even want to tell your loved ones of your unplanned pregnancy. It is important to tell your loved ones because keeping secrets as big as this one is not always good for your emotional health and your ability to take care of yourself. No matter your decision on what to do with this unplanned pregnancy, you should rally up all support you can receive from your loved ones.
Before The Talk
It’s important to think through how you are going to have the conversation with your loved one by thinking through several practical matters.
- What time of the day would be best to tell them?
- What room of the house would you like to tell them in?
- Do you want to tell them somewhere other than the house?
- Would writing a letter to them and then having a conversation be more beneficial for you and your loved ones?
- Do you want to tell them together or each separately?
- Would you want someone else with you when you tell them?
Starting The Conversation
The best way to start the conversation with your loved one is to be upfront and just say it. Easy conversation starters could be:
- “I have something difficult to tell you, I’m pregnant”
- “I need to talk to you but I’m afraid you will be upset with me”
- “I really need your support so please don’t be angry”
- “I just took a pregnancy test and it came back positive.”
Dealing With Reactions
Understand that your family and loved ones may need some time to process everything you just told them. They might freak out, which is understandable as they always want what is best for you, so it could be a good idea to give them some time alone to process. Some of your loved ones might be very excited about your pregnancy, but might not agree with the direction you are choosing to go with this unplanned pregnancy.
A good tip to dealing with this is writing down a list of reasons you have chosen this path. By explaining it to your loved ones with logical reasons, they may be more understanding of your decision.
You should understand that sometimes people are set in their own ways, and they may not agree with your decision. There are counselors that you can speak to and get support from no matter what path you choose in this unplanned pregnancy. Our Family Education section was created to help your family members and loved ones deal with your unplanned pregnancy in a healthy and supportive way. You can refer them to our pages for: