A variety of emotions may have run through you after you learned you were pregnant. You thought you were being safe, but you found out otherwise. Perhaps, when you and your partner had sex, he removed the condom without your knowledge. What your partner did can feel like a violation of your trust. It’s normal to feel upset or confused. Facing an unexpected pregnancy because of your partner’s actions can seem overwhelming. What do you do next? Where do you turn if your partner removed a condom without your consent?
There may be a lot of feelings and questions to sort through right now. Avenue Women’s Center is committed to connecting you to the answers you need. We can meet with you at one of our six centers in DuPage County. During your appointment, we’ll walk you through your options. We will make sure to supply you with reliable information about abortion, adoption, and parenting. We are here to help you navigate through this journey.
Contact us today for free consultations and support from our caring staff!
How Do I Feel About What My Partner Did?
Removing a condom without obtaining a partner’s consent may be referred to as “stealthing.” It’s normal for people to feel unsafe or violated afterward. Even if you’re not sure why you feel this way. Some women have equated this experience to a form of sexual assault.
You may want to give yourself time to think about what happened. How do you feel about your relationship? Do you feel your partner is respecting your boundaries and communicating with you? Is there someone you can talk to about this?
No matter what you’re thinking, you deserve to be respected and heard. It can be helpful to share your thoughts with someone you can trust. You may want to speak with a friend or a relative. Professional resources may be available as well. Perhaps you want to try talking to a counselor or a pregnancy consultant. This way, you can put your feelings into words and know you’re being listened to.
Are Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) a Concern In This Case?
Condoms can offer protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). If your partner removed it during intercourse, your risk of contracting an STD may have increased. Some people are unaware they have an STD because some STD symptoms are not noticeable right away. It’s recommended you get tested just to be safe.
An undiagnosed STD can spread and lead to further complications. If left untreated, an STD can develop into Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). PID can increase your risk of an ectopic pregnancy. It can also heighten your infertility rate if your fallopian tubes are damaged.
All of this may seem like a lot to take in. But a healthcare provider or a pregnancy consultant can connect you to the treatment you need.
Should I Tell My Partner About the Unexpected Pregnancy?
If you decide to communicate with your partner about the pregnancy, it may be best to have someone with you. A supportive friend, family member, or professional resource can make sure your needs are being heard in the conversation. After telling your partner how you feel, what might you need from him?
You may want to consider before talking to him what role you want him to play in your pregnancy decision. Is his support something you feel as if you need? If not, then who can aid you in processing your decisions? Locating someone you can reach out to can be beneficial. That way you can discuss your emotions with someone you trust as you prepare to make a choice.
Avenue Women’s Center understands there may be a lot of complex emotions you’re processing right now. We are here to listen and support you. We’ll make sure you can locate the resources you need. Each of our centers provides clients with a free, limited ultrasound exam. We can even supply you with referrals to help you find the best care.
Reach out today to schedule your free appointment!
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References:
- National Institutes of Health Medline Plus. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease. Retrieved from: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/pelvicinflammatorydisease.html.
Reviewed by Patricia Kuenzi, APN-CNP, MSN, ANP, PNP.
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.