It’s the holiday season and a time filled with many family gatherings and activities.
If you just found out you’re pregnant, you could struggle to know when to tell your family—especially if your calendar is full of what should be fun, festive events.
First, before you break the news, visit one of five Care Net Pregnancy Centers of Albuquerque locations. We can verify your pregnancy with free and confidential pregnancy testing and ultrasound so you can gather essential health details and know for a fact you’re pregnant.
Explore Your Options
Once you have verified your pregnancy, it’s time to consider your options. You have three: parenting, adoption, and abortion. Each one will lead you down a unique path, so be sure to understand each one thoroughly.
Once you have a solid idea of each and how you’re leaning, it’s time to talk with your family.
Having the Conversation
During the holidays, you may wonder how you’ll find time to share this news, but it’s important that you do.
Try to schedule a time with your closest family members that’s separate from the holiday festivities. You will want their full attention. Maybe you could consider having dinner together and sharing the news afterward or finding a time when everyone seems relaxed. Use your best judgment.
Then, when the time is right, share about your pregnancy and potential options.
Pregnancy, and also abortion, could trigger lots of emotional responses from your family. You may want to ease into the conversation and leave it open-ended afterward.
Your family members will need time to process the news, and you could have multiple conversations in the near future as you navigate this situation together.
What if They Disagree or Have Strong Opinions?
No matter which option you think you’ll choose, your family may have strong opinions or disagree with you. Be open to what they have to say and hear them out, but ask yourself a few questions as well.
- Do they care about me and my future?
- Are they pressuring me?
- Would their suggestion be in my best interest?
- Are they willing to support me during my pregnancy?
If your parents or family are coming from a place of care and not pressuring you, it’s easier for you to consider what they’re saying. However, at the end of the day, you must decide for yourself.
Safety Note
Please note: If you are concerned about abuse or your personal safety, you may consider not telling your family in person and instead sharing the news over the phone, with another person, or in a public place. Consider your safety in all situations before speaking about your pregnancy with your family.
Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline for assistance or dial 911 if you are in immediate danger.
Visit One of Our Locations for Support
An unexpected pregnancy can feel so difficult and sometimes lonely. We’re here to help support and encourage you during this time.
Schedule a free and confidential appointment to receive early pregnancy confirmation services and ask questions in a safe space. We’ll provide information on every option so you can make an informed choice.