When Your Teen Daughter Tells You She’s Pregnant

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As a parent, nothing quite prepares you for the moment when your teen daughter tells you she’s pregnant.

It’s emotional. It’s confusing. And it can feel overwhelming—especially if you’ve raised your children in a Christian home, taught them God’s truth about marriage and purity, and now feel like those lessons have somehow been lost.

But before you react, take a deep breath and remember: this is not the end of your daughter’s story. It’s the beginning of a new one. One that still includes hope, grace, and God’s redeeming love.

I Was That Pregnant Young Woman

I know this story, not just as a mother, but as the teen girl who had to break the news. I was seventeen, scared, and sure I had ruined my life. But God had other plans. And now, years later, I can look back and see how my story—like your daughter’s—was never outside of God’s reach.

Here are five ways to respond with grace and truth when your daughter shares her unplanned pregnancy with you:

1. Choose Grace First

She likely already knows she’s made a mistake. In fact, she may be bracing herself for rejection.

Instead of condemnation, lead with compassion.

Say this:
“We love you, and we’re here for you.”
“Thank you for trusting us with this. You’re not alone.”
“We’re thankful you’ve chosen life—your baby is a gift from God.”

“Love covers a multitude of sins.” – 1 Peter 4:8

2. Speak Truth Gently

Yes, it’s important to uphold biblical truth, but remember, this isn’t the moment to win a theological debate. She doesn’t need a lengthy lecture—she needs your loving presence and steady guidance.

If you have younger children, you can say:
“We’ll support your sister and her baby, but we also want to help you understand that God’s best plan is to wait for marriage.”

“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt.” – Colossians 4:6

3. Support Without Enabling

Support looks like helping her navigate next steps—doctor visits, plans for school or work, and spiritual encouragement.

But support doesn’t mean excusing choices or ignoring consequences. It means loving with open arms and a strong backbone.

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2

4. Pray Daily—for Her and the Baby

Prayer is powerful. Pray for your daughter’s physical and emotional health. Pray for the child growing inside her. And pray for your own heart as you lead with both strength and gentleness.

A Prayer for Your Daughter and Her Baby:

Father God,
Today I lift my daughter and her unborn child into Your hands. Lord, protect them, physically and spiritually. Calm her fears and strengthen her heart. Let her know Your love and help me to reflect Your grace in every conversation and choice. Teach me how to support her in truth and love. May Your plan unfold in both their lives, and may we see Your redemption at work in our family. Amen.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:18

5. Walk with Her Spiritually

If she’s open, read a book or devotional together. Check for a list at the end of the post.

Hope Is Not Lost

This isn’t the story you hoped for—but it can still be a story of redemption, growth, and deepening faith. With God’s help, your daughter can thrive, and your family can be a picture of His redeeming love.

She may not realize it yet, but she’s going to need you more than ever. And by choosing love and grace over shame and judgment, you’ll be reflecting the heart of our Heavenly Father.

“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9

You are not alone. God is in the midst of this. And the best is still to come.

Have you walked this journey with your daughter or someone you love? I’d love to hear your story or pray for you. Leave a comment below or message me directly.

With love and grace,
Tricia Goyer

Additional Resources

Before You Meet Your Future Husband

By Tricia Goyer and Robin Jones Gunn
This book is a beautiful resource for helping young women reframe their hearts around God’s plan for love and relationships, with guidance that’s gentle and grounded in truth.

This uplifting, interactive devotional helps you approach dating from a place of peace and strength, whether you’re in a relationship now or simply hope to be married one day. With a focus on your own transformation, Before You Meet Your Future Husband offers biblical guidance, real-life stories, thought-provoking questions, and intentional prayers to help you prepare now for the future God has in store for you.

Praying for Your Future Husband

By Tricia Goyer and Robin Jones Gunn
A powerful reminder that it’s never too late to invite God into your love story—even if that story has taken an unexpected turn.

Praying for Your Future Husband is perfect for women of all ages who are dreaming about “The One.” God has a beautiful romance prepared for you. Prayer is the key to unlocking the love story… with your future husband and with God, the lover of your soul.

Teen Mom: You’re Stronger Than You Think

By Tricia Goyer
I wrote this book to encourage young moms. It speaks directly to the struggles your daughter may be facing—and the strength she has in God to overcome them.

Being a mom is hard. Being a young mom has unique challenges. From Tricia Goyer, a teen mom herself, Teen Mom speaks to your heart, sharing insight, encouragement, and practical advice to help you create a better life for yourself and your child.