Having the Hard Conversations

You’re pregnant. Now what? 

You have to tell your family. 

How do you do that? 

That’s such a tender and big moment—you’re not alone in wondering how to handle it. How you tell your parents you’re pregnant depends on your relationship with them, your age, and your circumstances, but here are some thoughtful steps that can help you prepare:

1. Prepare Yourself First

  • Process your emotions: Whether you’re scared, excited, overwhelmed, or unsure, give yourself space to feel it. The staff at Echo Health are here for you. We can sit with you and help you process your emotions in a judgment free space.
  • Know what you want to say: Think about whether you want to simply share the news, or if you also want to talk about your plans (keeping the pregnancy, adoption, abortion, etc.). At Echo Health you will find staff members who can walk you through your options.

2. Choose the Right Time and Place

  • Find a calm, private setting with as few distractions as possible.
  • Avoid telling them in the middle of an argument or stressful moment.

3. Be Honest and Direct

  • You can start with:
    • “I need to tell you something important, and I’m nervous to say it.”
    • “I just found out I’m pregnant, and I wanted you to hear it from me.”

4. Expect a Range of Emotions

  • Parents may need time to process. Some react with shock, anger, or disappointment at first, but many come around with love and support.
  • Don’t feel pressured to respond to all their questions right away—“I don’t know yet” is an okay answer.

5. Have Support Lined Up

  • If you’re really nervous, consider having someone you trust (a sibling, close friend, mentor, counselor) with you when you tell them. We are here to help.
  • Or tell one parent first (the one you feel safest with), then the other.

6. Focus on Moving Forward

  • If you already have ideas about what you want to do, sharing that can help guide the conversation.
  • If you’re still figuring it out, let them know you’d like their help and support in making decisions. We are here for you. 

💡 Example Script:
“Mom, Dad… I need to share something difficult. I found out I’m pregnant. I’m scared and I don’t have all the answers yet, but I wanted to be honest with you because I need your support.”