Some conversations are more complicated than others. Telling your boyfriend or family members that you’re pregnant is one of the more difficult topics to discuss. How do you begin?
How much do you share?
An unexpected pregnancy is a big deal, and so is telling those closest to you. Take it one step at a time. Here are some tips to help you approach this conversation feeling prepared and confident.
First, Have You Confirmed Your Pregnancy?
Before you tell anyone, you may want to confirm you are pregnant. A late period and a positive pregnancy test may not be enough information. It seems strange, but there is a possibility your test result isn’t correct.
Experts estimate up to 26% of all pregnancies end in a miscarriage. As it takes your body time to return to pre-pregnancy hormone levels, it’s entirely possible to get a positive pregnancy test result after a miscarriage.
You Need an Ultrasound
An ultrasound exam determines three essential things about your pregnancy:
- If your pregnancy is growing or if you have had a miscarriage
- If your pregnancy is located in your uterus
- The number of weeks you have been pregnant
At Calaveras Pregnancy Center, we offer urine pregnancy tests free of charge. If your test is positive, we can arrange for a limited obstetrical ultrasound, on-site, free of charge. Don’t skip this valuable step.
Learn Your Options
Another advantage of visiting Calaveras is discussing your three options. We’ll examine your situation, ask questions, and discuss what is available to you. Although we do not perform or refer for abortion, we can talk about the various procedures, side effects to expect, and the potential physical and emotional risks.
In addition, we can explain the adoption process and provide referrals for reputable, licensed adoption services in our area. Parenting is another option. You may be surprised to learn about the many resources available to assist you in parenting your child.
Determining your feelings about each option can help steer your conversation with others. Feeling prepared and calm will make it easier to communicate your news clearly.
Preparing to Have the Conversation
You want to ensure you and your boyfriend or family members have time to talk. No one should be rushing out the door or dealing with other issues.
Choose a place where you feel safest. If you are concerned about someone’s angry response, be sure you have someone with you and consider talking in a public location.
Don’t respond to someone’s initial comments. Try not to react. It took you time to accept the pregnancy, and they need time, too.
Have everyone put down their phones. Here are some ideas for starting the conversation:
- “I have news that may upset you, but I want you to know…”
- “You might be disappointed by what I have to tell you, but…”
- “I’ve been struggling to tell you this, but I am pregnant.”
Get Assistance From Calaveras Pregnancy Center
If you’re unsure how to begin the conversation, talk to us. Our advocates can give you tips on approaching the subject.
We’re here to confirm your pregnancy, explain your options, and offer tips for talking to those closest to you. We never want you to feel alone.
Fill out our convenient online contact form or call (209) 736-9600. Visiting us is always confidential and free of charge. We care about you.