Mum's the word
Question
I've recently found out I'm pregnant. It was a bit of a mistake and I'm really scared about it but have agreed with my long-term boyfriend that we should go ahead with it. The thing is, I live at home with my mum and she's said to me in the past that if I got pregnant before I was married I'd be out the door straight away. Basically, it's really screwing me up and I just don't know how to tell her about it. What should I do?
Answer
Facing an unplanned pregnancy can be a difficult and complicated time, but help and advice are available. It's important to talk to someone as soon as possible. Brook Centres (for under 25s) have counsellors you can talk to in confidence. If you don't live near a Brook Centre, it's possible to get advice from other young people's services or your local family planning clinic. Either way, you can make an appointment to see someone who'll help you to come to the decision you feel is right for you.
It is common to feel shocked, scared, panicked, confused, embarrassed, isolated or lonely when facing an unplanned pregnancy. Professionals are there to provide information and support on the options available but the important thing is to talk to someone as soon as you can.
Telling a parent you are pregnant can be a daunting prospect. You may want to talk to a professional first before deciding how to approach your mum if you decide you want to tell her about this. Whether or not to tell your mum is completely your decision. It is important to remember your mum probably will be shocked and maybe angry at first, but most parents do want to support their children through difficult experiences.
You say you've decided to go ahead with the pregnancy so it's important you see your local doctor (GP) for ante-natal care. This is for the health of both yourself and the baby and it's best to get this sorted out quickly.
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