Dear Christine,
I have a really serious problem on my hands which I have not been able to share with my parents.
I am 18 years old, still a student, and I am pregnant. I wish it was as easy to tell my parents as it is to write to you. I am four weeks pregnant and simply don’t know what to do.
I am about to finish my last year at school and therefore have to sit some examinations next year.
My parents have always trusted me and I have not been hiding anything. They are both aware that I have been seeing a young man for the past year.
However, I do not believe for one moment that they expected me to get pregnant, as they have always preached to me about making my education a priority.
The truth is, I do not want to “get rid of this child”. I could not live with myself if I did because I know I would always be wondering what that child would have become.
My boyfriend, who is 22, has been supportive and has even suggested that we get married. He has a job, but is also completing studies part-time. I feel totally lost, as he has not yet told his parents either.
What should we do in this situation? Would I still be given a chance to sit my examinations – perhaps after the baby is born? I need some answers.
– P.I.
Dear P.I.,
Both you and your boyfriend must confront your respective parents. This is a must. When you do, even if they are angry at first, they are the ones who will help you to chart your course. Provisions can also be made for you to return to your studies, whether it’s at the school or via evening classes, so you can sit those examinations.
I also believe the best way to confront your parents is to do it with his parents present. Getting pregnant is not the end of the world, even though it will change your lifestyle drastically.
Have that talk, and let both sets of parents know that despite this pregnancy, you are focused on continuing your education at any cost. At the end of the day they will be the ones offering much support to you and their grandchild.
– CHRISTINE
