Some things in life are hard, and there’s just no way around it. First, you get a positive result on a pregnancy test. Now, you have to decide if and how you tell your parents. We have a few tips on talking to your parents, but it may be best to visit us before you do.

Have You Confirmed Your Pregnancy?

That may seem like a silly question, but a positive over-the-counter pregnancy test may not be enough to verify you are actually pregnant. The Mayo Clinic recommends not relying on one pregnancy test for accurate results. At both Willowbrook Women’s Center locations, you can receive no-cost, lab-quality pregnancy testing to provide you with a second opinion.

A Positive Pregnancy Test May Not Be Enough

There are several ways you can determine if you’re pregnant. Perhaps you’ve had unprotected sex, and now your period is late. Or, you have other symptoms such as tender breasts, feeling tired, or needing to go to the bathroom more. 

Did you know the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) estimates that as many as 26% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage?

That means as many as one in four pregnancies ends, in many cases, before a woman even knows she’s pregnant. A positive pregnancy test result is possible even though you’ve miscarried because it can take days for your body to return to pre-pregnancy hormone levels. 

We offer a no-cost limited ultrasound exam if your pregnancy test from us is positive. A limited ultrasound helps reveal if your pregnancy is viable or if you have miscarried. It also helps determine how far along you are and if the location of your pregnancy is correct.

You Are Pregnant. Now What Do You Do?

Once you’ve confirmed your pregnancy, it’s time to consider your options. When presenting your pregnancy to your parents, knowing your options helps them realize you’re handling your unplanned pregnancy maturely.

How Should You Approach Them?

Here are some questions to ask yourself as you consider the time and place to speak with them:

• Are your parents separated, divorced, or together?
• Do you have a close relationship with one or both of them?
• Do you feel physically safe talking to them?
• Do they have pre-conceived ideas about unplanned pregnancies, abortion, making an adoption plan, or single parenting?
• Is your partner or a friend willing to speak to them with you?

The answers to these questions and others will help determine if you should meet in a safe, public location or if you can talk at home privately. Be prepared for their shock and, most likely, disappointment. After all, it took you a while to process the information, too. Don’t respond to their immediate reaction. Give them time.

We Can Help You

If you want to talk further about how to approach your parents, our advocates will be happy to speak with you. We offer no-cost pregnancy services if you need to verify your pregnancy or find out how far along you are.  

Call 816-244-7824 to schedule an appointment at either of our locations. We’re here for you.