Telling your family about an unexpected pregnancy can feel difficult enough. Telling them while you’re also considering abortion may feel even harder. You might be worried about disappointing someone, being pressured toward a certain decision, or having to answer questions you haven’t answered for yourself yet.
You don’t have to begin that conversation before you’re ready. Bright Hope Centers offers confidential options consultations where you can ask questions and gather more information first. Schedule an appointment today if you’d like support before talking with your family.
Decide Whom You Want to Tell
Talking with your family doesn’t necessarily mean sitting everyone down at once. In fact, it may be easier to begin with one person you trust.
Think about who is most likely to listen to what you’re saying and provide the kind of support you’re looking for. That could be a parent, sibling, grandparent, aunt, or another relative. Having one person in your corner may also make later conversations with other family members easier.
You can also decide how much you’re comfortable sharing. You might tell them that you’re pregnant and still deciding what to do, without immediately discussing every detail. Or, if you’re considering abortion, you may want to tell them that directly and explain why you’re leaning toward that option.
Consider What Support You’re Looking For
Family members may immediately begin asking questions or offering advice. Even when their intentions are good, that can quickly make an already stressful situation even more challenging.
Before the conversation, think about what you’re hoping to receive from them. Do you need help solving a specific problem? Are you hoping they’ll help you research your options? Do you want to share the news but have more time before discussing a pregnancy decision?
Being clear can set the tone for the conversation. You could explain that you want them to hear you out before responding or that you aren’t asking them to make the decision for you.
Their first reaction may not be their final one, either. Just as you needed time to absorb the news, a family member may need time as well.
Be Ready to Talk About Why
If you’re considering abortion, your family may ask what is leading you in that direction.
Maybe you’re concerned about money, school, your relationship, housing, or becoming a parent. Instead of feeling like you have to defend yourself, use the conversation to talk honestly about the concerns you’re facing.
This may uncover questions worth exploring. What assistance would be available if you decided to parent? What would adoption involve? What should you know about abortion procedures and their risks? Getting specific about your concerns can help you determine what information you still need.
Seek Support Before the Conversation
If you aren’t sure how to approach your family yet, Bright Hope Centers can help. You can ask questions about abortion, adoption, and parenting and talk through the circumstances affecting your pregnancy and your options.
Your family may become an important source of support, but you don’t have to know exactly what to say before seeking information for yourself.
Contact Bright Hope Centers today to schedule a confidential appointment and learn more about your pregnancy options before starting the conversation at home.
Bright Hope Centers does not provide or refer for abortions.
