An unexpected pregnancy can raise questions about more than the pregnancy itself. You may be thinking about your relationship and wondering what your partner will say when he finds out. If you expect anger, confusion, or even just a difficult conversation, telling him may feel intimidating.
You don't have to walk into that conversation without first getting your own questions answered. Choices Options for Women can help you learn more about your pregnancy and your options in a confidential setting.
Schedule an appointment today to meet with our team. No insurance required.
You Don't Have to Have All the Answers YetYou may feel like telling your partner means you also need to tell him what you plan to do. It doesn't.
You can share that you're pregnant while still being uncertain about your pregnancy decision. You may also decide that you want more information before having the conversation at all.
Confirming your pregnancy with an ultrasound and learning about parenting, adoption, and abortion beforehand may help you sort out your own thoughts. It can also make it easier to separate what you want from what someone else hopes you will choose.
Think About the Reaction You're ExpectingThere's an important distinction to be made between worrying that your partner will be surprised and being genuinely afraid of him.
If your relationship is safe and respectful, his initial reaction may come from shock. He might immediately worry about finances, housing, school, work, or whether he's ready to be a father. Neither of you has to resolve those concerns in the first conversation.
You can tell him what you need from him in that moment. Maybe you want him to listen without immediately offering an opinion. Or perhaps you want to discuss the pregnancy and then give each other a day or two to process it.
If You're Afraid for Your SafetyIf your concern comes from previous threats, controlling behavior, intimidation, or violence, it's crucial to approach the situation differently.
You are not required to put yourself in danger to tell your partner about your pregnancy. Consider confiding in someone you trust before contacting him, and avoid meeting alone if you believe he could become violent.
Abuse during pregnancy can also take less obvious forms. Threatening to leave, withholding money, preventing you from seeing other people, or trying to force you into making a specific decision are never acceptable. You deserve safety and respect.
For confidential assistance, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
Start With Your Own QuestionsYour partner's response may be at the top of your mind right now. However, if you haven't already done so, it's crucial to confirm your pregnancy, learn how far along you are, and understand the choices available to you. Doing so can help you feel more prepared and confident moving forward.
Choices Options for Women is available to answer questions and help you learn more before making a pregnancy decision or discussing it with your partner. Schedule a confidential appointment today to get started.
Choices Options for Women does not provide or refer for abortions.