Did your partner recently tell you she’s pregnant? If so, you’re likely feeling many emotions right now—and those feelings are valid and understandable. However, the most important thing you can do is take a deep breath, give yourself some time to process the news, and support her.
You are both likely feeling overwhelmed with questions, but the best way to move forward is together. And no matter how you feel about the pregnancy, there are steps you can take to help your partner feel supported during this time.
This article will highlight those steps. (Looking for a safe space to talk or find answers right now? Contact us to schedule a free, confidential appointment with one of our peer counselors.)
It’s important to reiterate that whatever you feel about the pregnancy is valid and understandable. However, your partner is likely feeling all of that and more.
One of the best ways to show your partner support is by actively listening to what she’s going through.
Active listening isn’t just about hearing what someone says. Instead, it’s about making the other person feel truly heard.
The following strategies can help you actively listen:
While the decision about how to move forward in the pregnancy is ultimately your partner’s, your feelings are important as well.
Communicating your feelings to your partner without making her feel pressured if she disagrees is critical. For example, if she’s thinking about parenting but you’re worried about being a father, you can be honest but assure her that you will still support her choice—and then help her understand what this support will look like practically.
You can support your partner by helping her learn all she can about her options and by learning all you can as well.
There are three options for moving forward: parenting, adoption, or abortion. You and your partner owe it to yourselves to learn all you can about each option so that a wise, informed decision can be made—ideally, together.
This time can feel overwhelming, but you and your partner aren’t in this alone. At ALC, we’re here for you both.
If your partner hasn’t had an ultrasound yet, this is an essential next step. We offer limited ultrasounds for free because your partner needs information to stay safe. We also offer information about the available pregnancy options in a safe, nonjudgmental space.
Contact us today. We have two convenient locations: 711 Henry Clay Street, Shelbyville, KY (Phone: (502) 647-0300) and 368 N. Buckman Street, Shepherdsville, KY (Phone: (502) 212-2535).