An unexpected pregnancy can bring stress and uncertainty. It may feel even more complicated when you and your partner have different ideas about what should happen next. You may want to be on the same page, but first you may need time to understand each other’s point of view.
That may take more than one honest conversation. Give each other room to share your feelings, fears, and hopes. What happens next may affect your relationship and your plans for the future, so take the time to talk through what each of you is thinking.
Sometimes an outside perspective can help. If you need a safe space to talk, we’re available. The team at LaVie provides free and confidential services, including no-cost consultations. Schedule an appointment today. We’re here for both of you.
Have You Confirmed the Pregnancy?
The first thing you may need to do is confirm the pregnancy. You would think a late period and a positive pregnancy test would be all you need to know, but in some cases, it’s not.
According to experts, there’s a 10 to 20% chance of all pregnancies ending in a miscarriage. The actual percentage could be higher because many miscarriages occur before a woman even realizes she’s pregnant.
It takes time for a woman’s hormone levels to return to her pre-pregnancy range, so it’s possible to receive a positive pregnancy test even though she is no longer pregnant. How can she learn more? With an ultrasound.
We offer a free ultrasound at LaVie if you test positive for pregnancy at our center. An ultrasound also determines the number of weeks you’ve been pregnant and whether the pregnancy is located safely in the uterus.
What Questions Should You Be Asking Each Other?
As you consider talking with one another, here are a few questions you may want to ask:
- Are there enough financial and emotional resources for someone to parent the baby?
- Why are you considering an abortion?
- Do you have any other options?
- Is it possible to co-parent?
- What are the risks and long-term implications of an abortion?
- Will your relationship continue if you make either choice?
Ultimately, a woman has the final say over what happens to her pregnancy, but you both must share your thoughts.
Practice Active Listening
A conversation like this may feel easier when both of you have room to speak and feel heard. Active listening can help keep the discussion open and respectful.
- Set aside distractions, including your phone, when possible.
- Make comfortable eye contact and notice nonverbal cues.
- Ask open-ended questions that invite more than a “yes” or “no.”
- Repeat back what you heard to make sure you understood correctly.
- Give each other time to finish speaking before responding.
Schedule Time at LaVie Pregnancy Care Center
Whether you need free and confidential services like a pregnancy test or ultrasound, or you just need a safe place to talk, we’re here for you. We have men and women ready to counsel with you both.
Call or text us at (803) 996-4673. Or, pick a time for your appointment and let us know what you need. We want to be a part of your future.
LaVie does not perform or refer for abortions.