Preparing for a holiday gathering when you’re holding a significant secret can feel nerve-racking. What if a family member or friend asks you an uncomfortable question? What if it accidentally slips that you’re pregnant?
Rest assured, we will share advice for this exact situation. In the meantime, we recommend visiting Brazos Pregnancy Center in Granbury, Texas, to verify your pregnancy and learn about all your options.
Here are a few tips for handling holiday gatherings while pregnant.
Decide Who You Will Tell (Even if They Aren’t Attending)
A secret feels easier to keep when you tell at least one person you trust your pregnancy news. This confidant could be your partner or a close friend. The person you tell doesn’t need to attend these events, and it’s probably easier if they don’t.
However, this gives you a person you can talk with ahead of the gathering and text throughout as needed to work through any emotions or happenings. Having a sounding board will make all the difference in relieving the internal pressure you feel.
Give Up People Pleasing
It’s so easy to fall into saying “yes” to everything friends and family ask you to do over the holidays, whether that’s going to a party, baking an extra thing, or staying out longer than you want to. While this is healthy advice even when not pregnant, pregnancy gives you even more reason to prioritize your health and well-being.
During holiday gatherings, it’s okay to leave a little sooner than planned if you’re not feeling well and need to rest. You don’t need to help in the hot kitchen even if asked. Explain that you aren’t up to it that evening and can help in other ways.
Set boundaries for yourself and your time. If you are feeling extra nauseous and fatigued, it’s okay to say “no.” Maybe the holidays look different this year, with fewer high-energy activities and more rest.
Plan Responses to Common Questions
Often, gatherings mean seeing people you haven’t seen in a while or out-of-towners. They may ask you how you’re doing or what you’ve been up to. These questions can feel like an interrogation if you are holding onto a big secret.
Instead of getting antsy or nervous, try to anticipate them and plan your answers. Bringing up a new show you’ve been watching, or something you’re looking forward to, are completely acceptable responses and can lead to more conversation without making you feel uncomfortable.
What if You’re Ready to Tell Your Family and Friends?
If you’re ready to share your unexpected pregnancy with family and friends at a gathering, that might be a great opportunity, as everyone will be present.
Ask your loved ones to join you in a specific room or tell everyone around the dinner table. If you’re not concerned about their reactions or your safety, you can talk about the situation there in the moment.
If you’re concerned about their responses, ensure you have a safe exit plan or attend the event with a trusted person who can help you navigate any reactions that may arise.
Remember, you don’t have to share everything about your pregnancy, but providing more details, such as your current stage of pregnancy and an estimated due date, can help everyone better understand the situation.
We’re Here to Help
Keeping a secret can feel lonely, but Brazos Pregnancy Center is here to help you. Visit us to verify your pregnancy with free pregnancy testing and an ultrasound.
You’ll learn where your pregnancy stands, your available options, and any helpful resources you can take advantage of now to relieve stress. You can also discuss your situation with us in a safe and confidential space.
After an appointment, you’ll have the details you need to talk with friends and family.
We wish you a merry and bright Christmas season, and invite you to visit us today.