by Laura Leigh Fields

Created on: August 09, 2008

Parents are supposed to be more than authority figures. They should also be our friends and supporters no matter what. This is especially true in our adult years. However, when we are faced with pressing situations and life-altering decisions the thoughts of talking to our parents can often seem intimidating.

Finding out about a pregnancy can bring an overwhelming mix of emotions to the mom-to-me. Along with those already normal emotions comes the fear of what our parents could think. The truth is, no matter what they think, it has already happened and unless they want to turn into a cannibal, they can't eat you.

Still, it is easier said than done. Situations vary and different situations may have different reasons and motives behind them yet, this should be a joyous time for everyone involved. Worrying about what our parents will say can only cause us more stress than we need.

It is best to just be honest about it. Don't be a coward and do it through a letter or over the phone (unless that is the only option you have.) Sit down face to face with your parents and tell them the truth about it. Be gentle with your words and don't try to intentionally hurt them or lie about the situation. They will respect you more in the long run for having the nerve to be truthful.

It is important to come up with a plan for the pregnancy before you break the news to your parents. If you are planning on getting a job, getting married, won't have any support from the father, or are considering option: you need to make your parents away of these things when you sit down with them. They will be proud of you for being responsible about the situation and may be willing to help you brainstorm to come up with other possibilities.

If you are too scared to talk about these things with your parents, there are objects that can do the talking for you. You could send your parents a card made especially for a grandparent. You can also give them a copy of the ultrasound photo or show them the positive pregnancy test.

Regardless of how you tell them, it needs to come from you. If you think the news will get back to them through other people, keep it to yourself until you are able to inform your parents. Discovering that you are pregnant may be hurtful for your parents but it may even more devastating if it doesn't come from you. They may feel like you don't want them to know or that you don't care what they think. Avoid those possibilities all together by just coming on out with the news.

Once your parents are aware of the baby growing inside your belly, don't let that be the end of your communication with them. Be willing to let them be a part of the pregnancy. Let them accompany you to doctor's visits, help decorate the nursery, or go shopping with you for baby supplies. This could be an experience that will bring you closer rather than farther apart, if you are willing to accept all possibilities.

Your parents could turn out to be very valuable assets to both you and their grandchild. We can't choose who we are related to and like it or not, they are officially your child's grandparents. From day one, a child should be able to know and love their whole family. Don't deprive your child of this opportunity or else they may resent you in the long run.

Learn more about this author, Laura Leigh Fields.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.