An unexpected pregnancy already feels stressful, but combined with a new relationship, it can feel overwhelming.
You and your partner are still getting to know each other, so you might be unsure as to how they’ll handle the news.
Preparing yourself before the conversation can help relieve stress and create the best environment for a productive talk with your partner.
Below are practical tips that, combined with the no-cost services at Crisis Pregnancy Outreach, can best prepare you for the conversation. You can also schedule a confidential appointment with us to discuss your conversation further.
Confirm the Medical Facts First
Details and facts can steady a difficult conversation.
First, while at-home pregnancy tests are usually very accurate, it is possible to get a false positive. That’s why confirming your pregnancy with a no-cost pregnancy test at CPO is a great first step.
If the result is positive, a follow-up ultrasound is the recommended next step.
The ultrasound scan will reveal your gestational age and estimated due date as well as the location and viability of the pregnancy.
Location is especially critical because an ectopic pregnancy requires prompt medical attention, and viability matters because roughly 26 percent of early pregnancies end in miscarriage.
Decide What You Are Prepared to Say
Your safety governs this decision.
If your partner has ever frightened you, or if the relationship is too new to predict his reaction, consider telling him in a public place or having a trusted person present. You can also choose not to share the news; this is your pregnancy, and you’re in control.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available at any hour to offer support and resources, and if you are experiencing an emergency, don’t delay in calling 911.
You are also not obligated to have all the answers right away. Announcing that you’re pregnant and saying that you are still gathering information is a complete and reasonable position.
Separate His Reaction From Your Decision
A first reaction is seldom final. Give him the space to process the news, just as you did when you first found out.
Be aware of his responses. Support sounds like questions and offers of help. Pressure sounds like ultimatums, withdrawn financial support, or a deadline you did not set.
Remember that the decision about your pregnancy is yours, and it should be made with all the options in view and an understanding of the health risks.
For example, while the abortion pill, also called a medical abortion, sounds like a straightforward process, it poses certain risks, including heavy and prolonged bleeding, infection, an ongoing pregnancy if the drugs fail, or an incomplete abortion that requires a follow-up surgical procedure.
Grief, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues are also known risks after an abortion.
Support That Continues After the Conversation
Crisis Pregnancy Outreach’s help and support do not end when you leave our office.
We provide no-cost, confidential mentoring, licensed counseling through approved therapists, and other education and support resources. Our team cares about your situation and is here to support you.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment.
Crisis Pregnancy Outreach does not provide or refer for abortions.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.
