It’s completely natural to be afraid of others’ reactions to your pregnancy. After all, it’s huge news that impacts your family.
Keep reading for tips on what to do in this situation. You can also visit HOPE Pregnancy Center for no-cost support and pregnancy services. We can discuss your options confidentially and provide resources and information.
Explore Why You’re Afraid
Pinpointing the reasons you’re afraid can help you figure out how to address them. See if you can relate to any of the situations below.
Afraid of What They’ll Think
Maybe you want your family to be proud of you and worry about how this might impact their thoughts about you. Breaking the news is the only way to work through these feelings and talk about it with them.
If you generally have a healthy relationship with your parents, try to relax and enter the conversation with an open mind. They may surprise you with a better-than-you-expected reaction.
Afraid They’ll Pressure You Into a Decision
Remember that your pregnancy is your decision to make. While your family can pressure you, they can’t force you to abort; that would be coercion and against the law. They also can’t force you to make another decision either. It’s 100% your choice.
Afraid They Won’t Support Your Decision
Just like your family cannot control your decision, you don’t have control over whether they’ll support you or not in your choice. Make peace with your disagreement if you want to go another direction, and instead find support in healthy places.
You are a strong woman, but that doesn’t mean you must go through your pregnancy alone. Whether you have family support or not, we can be your support system.
Afraid They Will Abuse You
If you’re in an abusive situation, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline to make an exit plan. There are many organizations that can help when your home isn’t safe.
Before You Break the News
Before you tell your family, confirm your pregnancy with an ultrasound scan. This scan will provide details like how far along you are (gestational age), your estimated due date (if you plan to carry to term), and whether or not your pregnancy is progressing inside the uterus.
Schedule your no-cost appointment at HOPE Pregnancy Center today in Philadelphia. We’re here to assist you and be a safe space.