Adoption Blog

If you’re experiencing an unplanned pregnancy you might be having trouble confiding in your family; especially if you’re considering adoption. But speaking to your family is important for both you and them.

Your family can be a great support system. But they can’t support you until you open up about your pregnancy and adoption plans. They may not be receptive at first, but if you approach the subject with ease you might be surprised at how understanding they can be.

Here are some guidelines to speaking to your family about adoption:

Be Brave

It takes bravery to discuss such a sensitive topic with your family. Don’t back down. This is your time to demonstrate your bravery and have an honest discussion about your pregnancy and adoption options. You will be nervous. You might be down right petrified. But keep in mind you can only keep this to yourself for so long. The sooner you open up the sooner your family can be there to support you.

Establish Trust

It’s difficult to confide in someone you don’t trust. Hopefully that is not the case when it comes to sharing your adoption news with loved ones. Now is not the time to withhold trust. It’s time to embrace it. Start with someone who you believe can relate to you on some level. For example your mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, etc. Women tend to have a better understanding of what other women are going through. Once you have broken the barrier with one family member, it will be easier to tell others.

Be Honest

Now is not the time to alter or withhold information. This will only create unnecessary confusion in the future. Speak the truth when you talk to them about your pregnancy. Answer honestly when they ask you questions. They cannot help or support you without knowing how you are feeling. Don’t forget that honesty is not a one-way street. Not only will you need to be honest with your loved ones but they will also need to be honest with you.

Keep an Open Mind

Once your family knows about your pregnancy and adoption decision they will undoubtedly have opinions or suggestions. Hear them out - even if you are 100% confident in your decision. This is a lot for them to take in. By offering advice they are trying to help you. Listen to what they have to say and take their advice and suggestions into consideration. Your family loves you and wants what’s best for you.

What if I can’t talk to my family?

We understand that every family is different, and it might not be easy or even possible to let them in on your adoption plans. If you’re in an abusive relationship, living in unsafe conditions, or fear you may be shunned for sharing your pregnancy news, reach out out for help. The staff at AdoptList will help you locate people who can support and protect you during pregnancy.

Talking to your family about adoption is nerve wracking, but it is important that you let them in on your decision. Your family wants to know. More importantly, they deserve to know. They can also be there for you and support you during a time when you need them most.