Initial Response
The way that you respond to your girlfriend or partner telling you she’s pregnant can communicate a lot to her. It may also seem like saying, “I’ll support whatever you decide” is a supportive response, but it actually communicates that the decision is all on her shoulders instead of you walking with her through it. Be aware of what your response is communicating and let her know if you need some time to process things, but don’t check out and leave her hanging. Keep the door of communication open. It’s OK if you’re feeling scared but avoid blaming or emotional outbursts. She is likely also feeling strong emotions too and needs your support to feel secure in a vulnerable situation.
If you’re wrestling with mixed thoughts and feelings, consider giving yourself time to process them and then come up with a healthy way to share them. Reach out to us at Grace Place if you need to talk. We are here for guys, and we understand that navigating unexpected pregnancy can be a challenge for guys just as much as their partner.
Educate Yourself
Educate yourself on your options for pregnancy – we’re here to help at our Farmington, NM center. Maybe you weren’t expecting to have to think about pregnancy options before now, but it’s important to get all the information you need as soon as possible before taking the next steps. Grace Place is committed to empowering both you and your partner with information about abortion, adoption, and parenting.
Seek Support for Yourself
Nobody expects you to be an expert on how to handle unexpected pregnancy. It takes courage to recognize when you need someone to have your back and assist you. By getting support for yourself when you need it you will be better equipped to support her as well. We can help you navigate through all the questions you may have, including information about rights as a father. Keep in mind that ultimately the pregnancy decision will be hers to make, and something that you can’t fully control.
Communication – Listening
Listening is one of the best ways you can support your partner. Invite her to share her thoughts and feelings with you without judgement or trying to fix it. Simply create an environment of trust where she feels comfortable expressing what she’s feeling.
Communication – Sharing
There are healthy ways to communicate your feelings even during unexpected pregnancy. You may be feeling nervous, scared, or even happy and excited. It can be tricky for some guys to put these feelings into words, but it’s important to make an effort to communicate and share those feelings with her. Take responsibility for your feelings and avoid blaming. Your goal here is to allow her to understand where your heart is throughout the journey.
Demonstrate Your Support
Caring for her thoughts, feelings, and well-being is an ongoing way to support her throughout unexpected pregnancy. Listening and communicating honestly demonstrates that you actively care. Step alongside her in navigating the next steps by encouraging you to both explore pregnancy options together. At Grace Place we welcome both men and women to our center to help you both with our pregnancy services, options consultation, resources, and other support services to assist you both.
Walking alongside your partner in support and communication is the most important thing you can do as a guy. If you have taken these steps to support her it makes a significant difference, and Grace Place is here to help you when you need us.
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