Finding out that your partner is unexpectedly pregnant can feel overwhelming, and maybe you’re unsure about what to do next. These feelings are understandable, but your role in navigating the situation is vital.
Your partner needs your support now more than ever, and there are practical steps you can take to help her feel encouraged. Read on to learn more about these steps. Or, if you want to talk to someone in person about how to approach the situation, contact LifeLine Pregnancy Center. You’ll be connected to one of our caring team members, and you and your partner will be given the space to ask questions and gather information about your pregnancy choices.
Steps to Support Your Partner
Your partner is likely feeling as overwhelmed as you are, and your support and encouragement can help her feel reassured. Following these steps can help.
- Practice active listening. Your partner needs someone to talk to without feeling judged, and active listening is the answer. With active listening, the goal is to listen to your partner without offering judgment or advice. Instead of offering direction, ask questions that help your partner find their own answers through self-reflection. For example, if she says she’s feeling worried about her future, ask her what she’s worried about specifically.
- Help her gather information. If your partner is thinking through her pregnancy options, helping her gather information on each option will be helpful. Her three pregnancy options include parenting, adoption, or abortion, and you can learn more about these options by contacting LifeLine Pregnancy Center. We provide no-cost, unbiased information about each option so that you and your partner have all the facts you need to make a confident decision.
- Offer resources. If your partner needs to go to doctor’s appointments or is craving certain foods, making sure she gets what she needs will be a huge help and ensure that she feels supported.
- Maintain open dialogue. Talking with your partner about how you feel regarding the pregnancy is important, and your feelings are valid. While the choice about how to move forward in the pregnancy is ultimately your partner’s to make, it’s essential that you both maintain an open dialogue regarding your feelings. If you two can’t agree, speaking with a trusted third person about what you and your partner are feeling can help you understand each other’s perspective.
Next Steps
Facing an unplanned pregnancy can feel scary, but you and your partner aren’t alone. At LifeLine Pregnancy Center, we’re here for you. We offer no-cost pregnancy resources to help you both feel supported during this time. Contact us today for a no-cost, confidential appointment.
