I'm a little over 10 weeks, and I'm ready to tell friends that I'm expecting. The thing is, I'm terrified. I'm 19 and will be a single mother and I'm scared of what everyone will say. I know some of my friends will be completely supportive, but I also know some will tell me just how much I've messed up everything. I do know that this will be hard, but I already know I will do everything I need to in order to raise my baby on my own. I'm just scared of people who think I don't realize the reality of the situation I'm currently in.
Re: Can I have input?
I can sort of relate to this as I was pregnant with Ds when I was 19. I gave birth to him 3 days after my 20th birthday. I was, and still am, married and really had everything "in order" for a long time. Unfortunately, I was still [and still am] judged because of my age. I heard some very harsh things from people I didn't know, say in a grocery store, or a parking lot but I really reminded myself everyday that those things ultimately don't matter.
You'll be fine and you will find out who your friends are cling to those people and your supportive family.
I understand.. i was 17 when I had my son. Your true friends will stick by you, the others can take their walking papers and go. It was hard for me I wont lie BUT I also had parents that although not thrilled with the situation, were supportive and I finished highschool. I also later on went on to a local college. You are going to do fine.
As far as people talking... heck that happens no matter what your age. I am 40, married for 10 years and pregnant with #3 and my parents are NOT happy at all. Some people are supportive and others think I am insane.
You have a wonderful support system right here and no matter how silly you think a question or vent is we are always here to listen and most of the time can relate to the issue in some way.
Just repeat to yourself, and say to them if appropriate: What's done is done. Having a kid at 19 may not be the best thing generally, but it is what it is. I'm prepared to deal with the consequences of my decision and not let them affect my child's life. I'm prepared to be the best mother I can and give my child all the love and care possible and a good life. My decision is made and it is up to you (them) whether you (they) want to support me and my child in a positive way.
It may take awhile for some people to come around, but the important ones will and you will find others to replace those that won't. Just focus on keeping yourself and your baby healthy and cared for and surrounded by love.
Really, it doesn't matter what situation we are in, people talk. This is our third baby and people are still talking about whether it's a good decision or not. (this is family, as no one else knows yet)
Find a support system that doesn't have toxic people in it. Stay healthy.
I'm glad you're here too!!!
Just remember that no matter what your situation, people will talk and judge. How you react to it shows what kind of person you are. You seem to be handling this very positively - which is great!
I'm also a single mom to be, although the circumstances couldn't be more different. And, even when you are 34, and planned the pregnancy, and have a great career - people will talk. I have family members that have asked my parents if I will be getting back together with my ex so that the baby will have a father. Ummmm... if I wanted that, I wouldn't have gotten divorced!
Ultimately at the end of the day, all you can do is do right by yourself and your LO. And, as long as you can sleep at night you are doing well.
I was 20 the first time I was pregnant and I dealt with all of that you are describing from family and friends. But, you know what I was a damn good mom to my son and I got myself through school. Today I think everyone thinks Caden is the best thing that happened to me because he gave me drive and motherhood taught me not to settle. It is all up to you.
This.
BFP#1 09/2009 * EDD 6/19/2010 * Born 6/12/2010
BFP#2 6/03/2012 * EDD 2/09/2013 * MC @ 5w2d 6/13/2012
BFP#3 8/30/2012 * EDD 5/16/2013