Are you coping with an unexpected pregnancy, and feeling like your partner is pressuring you to choose a certain pregnancy option? Whether he’s pushing abortion, adoption, or parenting, you’re probably grappling with some complex emotions surrounding this pregnancy and your next steps (not to mention your partner’s reaction). You’re likely feeling scared and confused. Perhaps you’re hurt or angered by his pushy approach. You may have doubts about your own desires for this pregnancy and how to respond to your partner. No matter what questions you’re wrestling with today, Avenue Women’s Center is available to provide clarity and support.
When it comes to making a pregnancy decision, weighing other peoples’ opinions while embracing your autonomy is no easy task. Avenue Women’s Center is here to encourage you with this truth: You have what it takes to identify and pursue your own best outcome. Our goal is to equip you with reliable information and compassionate care, so you can feel empowered to achieve this.
Learn more about Avenue Women’s Center! We’re a limited medical clinic that offers first-step pregnancy services to help women lean into their best possible futures. All our services are free and confidential!
Navigating the Nuances of Conflicting Views
It’s one thing to express an opinion about a partner’s pregnancy options. It’s another thing to bully them into choosing your own desired outcome. Your significant other likely has personal views concerning your pregnancy options, and it would be okay for him to share these with empathy and respect. A mutual conversation could potentially help the two of you reach a healthy understanding. But your partner might be walking a fine line between sharing his thoughts and pressuring you. Maybe his approach feels subtly manipulative, blatantly coercive, or somewhere in-between. Appropriate steps should be taken to safeguard yourself and your decision if that’s the case. He must recognize and respect your decision-making autonomy, whether or not he’s on the same page as you.
Ask yourself whether or not your partner is pressuring you, and how intentional this may be. Consider factors like the relationship history, his personality traits, and conversations you’ve had in the past. If you feel safe, consider engaging in a dialogue about your pregnancy situation and his response to it. Let him know that you care about his opinions. But call him out on any coercive behavior, set clear boundaries, and let him know that this pregnancy decision is in your hands.
A Word About Coercion
Coercion (from a partner or anyone else) is never okay. No matter the nature of the relationship. No matter the circumstances. Whether or not you agree with some of your partner’s points. People facing situations like yours may be tempted to give in to pressure because they’re exhausted by the burden of making a pregnancy decision. Their stress may impact their self-esteem and cause them to question their ability to make the right choice. Know that you’re strong and brave enough to find your unique best path forward! You may just need a boost of information and encouragement to aid you in your next step.
*Some coercion is abusive or covers up abuse. If you believe that you are being abused and are concerned for your safety, call 911 right away. To get connected with support, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
Getting Support at Avenue Women’s Center
Avenue Women’s Center is a safe place to get clear, neutral, and accurate information about your pregnancy options. We start by providing a free medical-grade pregnancy test so you can confirm the pregnancy. Afterwards, we offer a pregnancy consultation to discuss the processes and risks involved with all 3 of your alternatives (abortion, adoption, and parenting). The consultation is also an opportunity to process your emotions about the pregnancy test result and get info on local resources. Our limited medical ultrasounds provide 3 pieces of information that are important to know before making a decision: The location of the pregnancy (to rule out ectopic pregnancy), the gestational age (which can affect your eligibility for certain pregnancy options), and your chances of miscarriage.
Sharing your pregnancy experience with important people in your life can be challenging, especially when they offer unwanted feedback or pressure you. When you reach out to Avenue, we promise you’ll be met with warmth and compassion. We’re a pressure-free, judgment-free zone. Our approachable pregnancy consultants and medical team are fully committed to providing timely help with the highest ethical standards.
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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.