Is your partner about to leave for an extended period of time? Or has he already reached his destination? He may be on a military tour of duty, traveling for work, or visiting family abroad. Perhaps he’s incarcerated. Coping with a significant other’s absence can be difficult regardless of his reasons for being away (though some situations tend to be particularly stressful). A partner’s absence is hard even when things are otherwise going well in life. But what if you don’t have the luxury of stability right now? What if you’re struggling to manage an unexpected pregnancy while your partner is somewhere else?
You may have a lot on your plate. But you also have the strength that you need to face this challenging time with courage, even if you’re feeling exhausted today. Our caring team at Avenue Women’s Center is available to support you. We’re a limited medical clinic with six locations in Chicagoland, and we offer free services to help women take informed steps in the early days of an unexpected pregnancy.
Discover our no-cost, confidential services! We’re located in Darien, Elmhurst, Glen Ellyn / Lombard, Naperville, West Chicago, and Wood Dale, Illinois.
An Understandably Stressful Time
Receiving an unexpected pregnancy result can be overwhelming enough on its own. But if your partner isn’t available to provide practical or emotional support at a moment’s notice, you may really feel like you’re in over your head. Is parenting one option that you’re considering? If so, you may feel sad or anxious about your partner potentially missing the birth and the baby’s first days. Maybe this concern is so significant for you that it’s beginning to influence your decision-making process.
There are probably other factors to consider beyond the pregnancy that are contributing to your stress. Being physically separated from a partner can naturally trigger feelings of loneliness. Depending on where your partner is and how he’s doing, you may also be worried about his well-being. If you’re questioning how you’re going to manage, that’s understandable. But the truth is, you can cope and you will make it through this season of life. It can help to take your pregnancy journey and this period of separation from your partner one small step at a time. Compassionate people in your life and/or a pregnancy center like Avenue can navigate this road by your side.
Surrounding Yourself with Support
Now is the perfect time to surround yourself with caring support. If you haven’t already, consider confiding in someone you trust- like a close family member, counselor, mentor, or spiritual leader. It’s okay to build your support network at your own pace, one person at a time. But establishing this network will be key to coping well, regardless of which pregnancy option(s) you’re considering. Just because your partner is away doesn’t mean he can’t be a vital part of your support system too. He may not be readily available if you need a listening ear, a helping hand, or a warm hug right away. But chances are, he’s invested in this pregnancy journey too, and wants to stay connected as much as possible. Explore creative ways to share this experience to the extent that circumstances will allow, and fill in the gaps by leaning on other people that you trust.
Your Circumstances are Temporary
It’s natural to feel overwhelmed by the stressful circumstances of an unexpected pregnancy. However, it’s important to remember that most of these circumstances are temporary. Your partner will hopefully be back by your side in the not-so-distant future. Nobody knows what the future may hold, but your future will be affected by your pregnancy decision. So, keep a big-picture perspective by asking yourself if the same option you’re pondering today would remain your best option a few years from now. Be encouraged that many of the difficulties you’re dealing with now will pass.
Reaching out to Avenue Women’s Center is one highly effective way to build your support network. We’re an excellent place to begin your pregnancy journey, especially if you’re stunned and confused about how to move forward. Our expert staff members are dedicated to meeting you wherever you are emotionally, with empathy and professionalism- never judgment. This is truly a safe space to learn about your pregnancy and all the options available to you: abortion, adoption, and parenting.
Reach out to schedule an appointment! We accept walk-ins too!
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.