How to Have “The Talk” With Your Parents
November 7, 2016
It might be uncomfortable to talk to your parent(s) about sex, but research shows that teens who talk to their parents about sex are less likely to become pregnant or contract an STD. With that in mind, you still may wonder how do you even start a conversation about sex?
Consider these tips for having “The Talk” with your parents:
- Know what you want out of the conversation. Do you want advice about a specific situation? Do you want support and reassurance? Do you want medical information? Do you want some answers for questions you have about birth control? Ask specifically for what you want.
- Choose a time when you can be relaxed and not feel hurried.
- Find a place that offers some privacy and minimizes distractions.
- Start with an icebreaker.
- Ask an easy question first, then work your way up to the more awkward things – “When did you start dating?”
- Mention a scene from a movie or a magazine article – “In a movie I saw last week, this character talked about ____, what does that mean?”
- Tell about something your health teacher or the school nurse taught your class – “Our school nurse said we could ask her questions, but I’m too embarrassed. Can I ask you?”
- Admit you are uncomfortable – “I’m really nervous about this, but I want to talk to you.”
- Write down any questions you have before you talk. Maybe handing your parent(s) an index card with a question will be less intimidating for you. At the very least, if your nervous brain goes completely blank, you’ll have notes to help you know what to say.
- End by asking if you can talk more later or ask more questions as they come up. “The Talk” doesn’t have to be a one-time deal. It can be an ongoing, open conversation that will feel a bit less weird each time. And more times than not, your parent(s) will see this as a step of maturity.
What if you really can’t talk to your parents about sex? The Collage team is here to help answer any questions you have and offer support and encouragement. Please give us a call at (308) 234-9880 in Kearney or (308) 675-2217 in Grand Island.
An unexpected pregnancy can leave you with more questions than answers. Especially when friends are urging you to choose abortion, you may be more confused than ever. While their advice might come from care or fear, it’s essential to remember this is your pregnancy, future, and choice. At Collage, we’re here to help you navigate this pressure and find a path that feels right for you so that you can feel informed and confident about your decision. Reach out to us today for no-cost support. Listen to Your Instincts Your friends might be an important part of your life, but your instincts matter most. If abortion doesn’t feel right, take a moment to ask: What’s holding me back? Maybe you’re picturing parenting your child or are curious about adoption. It’s also important to keep in mind that abortion is a serious procedure that your friends may not fully grasp the details of. Physical and emotional risks are involved, making it a more complex decision. Your hesitation is a sign to slow down and explore, not to rush into a choice you’re not ready for. Talk It Out If your friends keep pressing, try a gentle conversation. Let them know you understand they’re worried, you’re not sure about abortion yet. Ask what’s driving their advice. Maybe they’re scared about your finances or future. Maybe they’re simply telling you what they’d do in your situation, but that doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Understanding their side can ease tension without giving in. If they won’t respect your space, set boundaries and let them know you need time to think. You don’t owe them an immediate answer. Find Your Support Surround yourself with people who’ll lift you up, not pull you down. Write down your thoughts or talk to someone neutral. You can find a counselor or even online spaces where you can share your heart with those who won’t push one option over another. Even a trusted family member, a mentor, or a place like Collage can offer perspective without strings. You deserve to make this decision with clear facts and a steady heart, not under pressure. Help is Available If your friends are pushing abortion but you’re not ready, Collage is here with no-cost lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited obstetric ultrasounds, and pregnancy options education to help you decide what’s next. Our trained team offers confidential support to explore parenting, adoption, or abortion without pressure. Contact us for a no-cost appointment today. You deserve to choose your own path.
An unexpected pregnancy can flip your world upside down, and the urge to keep it under wraps might hit hard. Maybe you’re thinking abortion could erase the situation quietly.
What do you do when those closest to you start pushing you toward a decision that doesn’t feel right? Pressure from family or friends to choose abortion can leave you feeling stuck, unheard, and unsure of what to do next. How can you hold firm in your decision while dealing with well-meaning but overwhelming advice? Here’s what you can do to navigate this difficult situation with strength and resilience. Mental Health and Pressure Your decision should be your own—one that isn’t influenced by guilt or outside expectations. Studies show that women who feel pressured into abortion are more likely to experience guilt, anxiety, depression, and other negative mental health outcomes. Protecting your mental and emotional health starts with making a choice that aligns with what you truly want. Ways to Handle the Pressure Since you understand why this decision needs to be yours, here are some practical steps to help you handle outside pressure. Give Yourself Time You don’t have to decide right away. Take a moment, think through your feelings, and give yourself the gift to reflect without feeling rushed. You're less likely to regret a decision made on your terms. Learn About All Your Options Abortion isn’t your only choice. Parenting and adoption are also possibilities, each with its own forms of support and resources. Learning more about these options can help you make an informed decision you feel at peace with. Set Boundaries It can be tough to stand your ground when others have strong opinions about your decision. Clearly expressing your thoughts by setting boundaries can help you avoid unwanted pressure. Letting others know you need time and space to think can help shift the conversation away from their influence and back to what’s best for you. Advice from a Third Party Getting a different perspective on your situation can be helpful when seeking advice from someone outside your inner circle. This could be a professional counselor, an online support group, or a caring team member at Collage . You deserve people in your life who want to understand you without judgment. You Are Not Alone Even if those around you don’t fully understand, there are people who do. A supportive environment can make all the difference as you navigate this decision. Collage is here to walk with you during this time. We offer lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited OB ultrasounds, pregnancy options information, and more at no cost so you can get informed and have the support you need to move forward with certainty. Schedule a confidential appointment today.
