Preparing to share the news of your unplanned pregnancy can feel daunting. If you’re worried the conversation will be overwhelming or you don’t know what to say, continue reading for tips on talking with your boyfriend and family about your pregnancy.
Tips for Sharing the News
1 . Process Your Feelings
Before talking with your boyfriend and family, it can be helpful to consider your own feelings about your pregnancy.
It’s easy to worry about how others will respond, but it’s important to take time to process everything yourself. If you’re overwhelmed by your thoughts, journaling can be a great way to sort through your emotions and better understand your feelings.
2. Make a Plan
Because sharing the news may feel scary, making a plan can ensure you follow through and say what you intended. The conversation may be emotional, but having a plan can help you stay focused and have the confidence to share your feelings.
3. Pick a Time and Place
Ensuring you have plenty of time to talk in an environment without distractions can help you and your boyfriend or family feel comfortable and relaxed.
4. Give Others Time to Process
Just as you may have experienced a variety of emotions when you found out you were pregnant, your boyfriend or family may be feeling the same way.
Remember that others’ initial reactions may not reflect how they truly feel. Allowing time for others to process the news and then having follow-up conversations can be helpful.
Your Safety
If you ever feel physically threatened when sharing the news with others, leave immediately and call 911.
If you are in a physically or verbally abusive relationship or expect your boyfriend or family to react violently when you share about your pregnancy, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-SAFE). The hotline can help you make a plan on how to protect yourself.
Get the Support You Deserve
Salem Pregnancy Care Center wants to support you as you prepare to share the news of your pregnancy with those closest to you.
We provide lab-quality pregnancy tests and limited ob ultrasounds that can help you learn more about your pregnancy, better understand your options, and prepare to share your pregnancy with others. We invite you to bring your loved one with you as you take this next step in your journey into parenthood.
Contact us today for your free and confidential appointment.