Whether it was from a casual hookup or your partner, learning that you helped cause an unplanned pregnancy can leave you reeling.
Your first thought may be to find the most convenient solution; however, it’s important to have open and honest conversations with the woman carrying the pregnancy, whether you’re currently in a committed relationship or not.
You both had consensual sex, so you are both equally responsible for the decision and outcome of this pregnancy.
The good news is that there are options and resources available to you, and you don’t have to make a decision overnight. You have time, so give yourself some space to process this new reality.
Read below for some suggestions on how to navigate this journey and important conversations you should have with your partner.
Try to Be Open-Minded
When she gave you the news, it was likely with some anxiety or fear of how you would respond. It’s completely understandable if you had a knee-jerk reaction, but, now that you’ve had time to process, try to see things from her point of view.
She is probably frightened as much as – if not more than – you are.
Depending on your history together, she may be wondering if you’re going to ghost her, if she is going to face this alone, or be pressured into making a decision she may not otherwise make.
She is the more vulnerable one in this equation since she is physically carrying the pregnancy, so try to be understanding, patient, and willing to support her emotionally as you navigate this together.
If you are in a good headspace after processing the news, try to ask her how she’s feeling, if there are any fears you can address, and make sure you each have a good grasp of how the other person is feeling.
Understand What Your Options Are
Depending on your situation, your career, education, or future plans may feel up in the air because of this news.
Whether or not you and your partner are on the same page, it’s important you understand what the options are: parenting, adoption, and abortion.
AscentCare is here to answer questions on all your options so you can make a plan together.
Make a Plan Together
If you are able to answer all the questions above, you have enough working knowledge to make a decision.
Together, you should decide what sacrifices, changes, or commitments you are or are not willing to make as a result of this pregnancy.
The most important thing you can do is to commit that you are not going to walk away from the situation until a resolution has been made and you have done everything you can to be there for your partner.
You should try to be as understanding as possible because, ultimately, it is the woman’s decision on what to do with the pregnancy.
However, it’s your job to be as involved and as supportive as she needs you to be.
What Next?
At AscentCare, we offer consultations for men or women facing an unplanned pregnancy. We offer support and answer questions about options and resources.
No one should have to walk this journey alone, and it is incredibly brave to ask for help and seek answers.
Whether it’s by yourself or with your partner, we encourage you to contact us for a no-cost appointment!