MY GIRLFRIEND IS PREGNANT
WHAT NEXT?
Once she’s missed a period, everything can change fast. What happens next may ultimately be her decision, but most women really care what their partner is thinking. Call us to learn how you can be supportive and how to express your feelings.
unplanned pregnancy help for men
An unplanned pregnancy can be frightening for yourself, but even more so for your partner. She needs you now more then ever. She needs to know she is not alone and that the two of you can get through this together. It’s vitally important that you provide her with the support she needs, both emotionally and physically. Not sure what that looks like? Here are some tips on how you can do this.
What to do:
The first thing to do is simple: talk with her and listen to her. Ask her how she’s feeling and listen for ways you can help and be there for her. Sometimes, the best way to help is to just present with her. Be honest with her and yourself. Own and share at all times how you feel. You’ll be surprised at how much it will help her to know that you may share the same concerns.
In addition to keeping the lines of communication open between the two of you, it can also be helpful to discuss the situation with parents and others who are invested in your lives. In some cases, keeping the pregnancy and your emotions a secret can add stress in a time where staying calm is necessary.
You’ll also want to find out for sure that she’s pregnant before making any decisions or rushing to any conclusions. Learn about where she can go for help during her unplanned pregnancy. Encourage her to explore all of her pregnancy options before making a decision.
Care Net Pregnancy Centers offer lab-grade pregnancy testing and confirmation at no cost to her. We provide pregnancy options education to women and men facing pregnancy decisions. Give us a free and confidential call at 866-406-9327.
What not to do:
It’s important to not pressure her to make any decisions before she is ready. She has choices to make and she needs to know that you’re in this together and will be with her every step of the way. Although it might be hard at times, don’t close yourself off emotionally or stop communicating with her throughout her pregnancy and decision making. Most women in an unplanned pregnancy already feel alone. Try your best to be intentional about remaining present with her and don’t be afraid to express your feelings or add your input whenever it’s needed.
Similarly, don’t run from your responsibilities. While the situation may be frightening, the more you try to avoid it, the harder things will be. Be honest with her about your concerns and discuss what each of you need from the other for support. Lastly, be as supportive as you can, taking care not to shame her. She may already feel guilty, embarrassed, or ashamed. Instead, devote yourself to being a safe and comforting person for her that is a source of positivity and encouragement.
Listen
Try to set aside your feelings so you can truly hear what she is saying. Observe her emotional and physical health as pregnancy affects her. Listen to her thoughts and feelings and share yours.
Let her know she is important to you
Don’t pressure her about the pregnancy or check out. Instead, commit to exploring your options together. We can help find out if she is pregnant, provide accurate information about options, and offer post-decision support.
HAVE QUESTIONS? GET ANSWERS.
“The woman I spoke to listened to me. You could tell in her voice she truly cared about what I was going through and didn’t push me to make a decision.”
– PDL TESTIMONIAL