Did your partner recently find out that she’s pregnant, when neither of you were expecting this? If so, she’s probably feeling completely overwhelmed right now (and you may be right there with her). Perhaps she’s considering abortion as a pregnancy option. As you try to process your thoughts and emotions surrounding this, it may have already occurred to you that Father’s Day is right around the corner.
Father’s Day is bound to feel complicated for a man in a position like yours. Although your partner’s pregnancy news likely came as a shock, maybe a part of you is excited about the pregnancy, and wants to be excited about Father’s Day too. Her plans to end the pregnancy (or her hesitancy to continue it) may be causing you to feel stuck in a “limbo” state. If that’s the case, know that you’re not alone. And you’re not powerless! It’s possible to support your partner, care for yourself, and contribute to a positive outcome all at once.
Maybe you have some positive feelings about your partner’s pregnancy in addition to the negative. But because a pregnancy decision is in your partner’s hands, you’re afraid to validate those positive emotions. You’re probably worried that this would set you up for disappointment or even heartache. At Avenue Women’s Center, we understand how difficult and complex it can be for both women and men to process the news of an unexpected pregnancy. We’re here to support you and your partner as you navigate your next steps.
Discover our free early pregnancy services and contact us today! Avenue is 100% committed to providing accurate, unbiased information about all pregnancy options, so our clients can pursue their own best outcomes feeling equipped and informed.
A Healthy Support System- Possible and Important
The circumstances that you’re facing can often feel very isolating. Maybe only a few people in your life are aware of your partner’s pregnancy. You and she might be the only ones who know. Because your situation is sensitive, building a support network may be extra-challenging for you and your significant other, both as a couple and as individuals. Nevertheless, finding genuine support is possible- and important! A good support person will offer you valuable perspective as well as practical/emotional care.
Consider who in your life might be an appropriate person to confide in. Try to think of someone who’s caring, trustworthy, and an excellent listener. It may be wise to include your partner in a discussion about this. Reaching out for unexpected pregnancy support can be extra-complicated for a guy, simply because the pregnancy news belongs to your partner too. Depending on your circumstances and your relationship, it may be challenging to access the support that you need while protecting your partner’s privacy and preserving her trust. Maybe she’s uncomfortable with you confiding in someone you both know. If so, consider contacting an unbiased professional or neutral third party, like a professional counselor or a faith leader.
Navigating this Pregnancy Alongside Your Partner
If you feel safe and comfortable confiding in your partner, it may be a good idea to tell her how you feel about the pregnancy (both the positive and the difficult). A decision for abortion, adoption, or parenting ultimately belongs to her. And it’s important for you to offer her emotional support throughout this journey. However, emotional support is a two-way street. In a healthy relationship, both partners will listen to and empathize with each other’s feelings- whether or not they agree. You have a right to care for your own needs as well as your partner’s and to advocate for yourself in healthy ways.
Check out some of our other blogs for tips on navigating this pregnancy alongside your partner!
Three Things to Remember If Your Girlfriend Is Facing an Unexpected Pregnancy
Helpful Communication Tools When Sharing Pregnancy News
If the title of this blog describes where you’re at today, you may be feeling paralyzed by circumstances that are largely beyond your control. Maybe you’re just not sure what to think or how to feel, because you and your partner don’t seem to be on the same page when it comes to this pregnancy. That’s truly a difficult place to find yourself. Avenue Women’s Center is available to equip the two of you with the information you need to take knowledgeable next steps. We provide neutral and easy-to-understand information on all pregnancy options. We also provide free limited medical ultrasounds, so your partner can find out how far along she is and whether or not the pregnancy is likely to continue on its own.
Contact us today to learn more about our confidential services and schedule an appointment! We have five locations in Chicagoland, Illinois.
The information provided here is general in nature. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.